West Nile Virus reported in Sedgwick County
The Sedgwick County Health Department is reporting 28 cases of the West Nile Virus, and residents are being urged to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, since mosquitoes carry the virus.
In spite of drought conditions across much of the country, the virus has spread in 43 states, with the highest number of cases since the late 1990's. There have been serious cases and death in some states.
Health Department director Claudia Blackburn says most people who get the virus will have no symptoms or mild symptoms, but a few cases can become serious, especially with people over 50 and people with other health conditions.
Blackburn says people should wear long pants and long sleeves if they're going to be outdoors at dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. She says people should remove any standing water around their homes, and streams or ponds can be treated to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
The cases in Sedgwick County are now in the process of being confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.