DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – Dallas County Health and Human Services reports the first West Nile virus death in Dallas County for 2017.
The patient was a resident of the 75248 zip code in Far North Dallas and was diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease Friday, July 14. Health officials say the patient had underlying medical conditions.
“I think this underscores the importance of using mosquito repellent,” said Dallas County Health and Human Services Director Zachary Thompson. “And reminding Dallas County residents that we are in West Nile season.”
West Nile virus is a disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes can become infected when they feed on the blood from infected birds. The infected mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans and animals. Severe West Nile Virus infections can cause neurologic complications such as encephalitis. Milder symptoms include fever, headache and muscle aches. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile Virus.
DCHHS says the best way to avoid exposure to West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites.
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