West Nile Virus In San Angelo: Whats The Buzz About

So you have probably heard someone talking about the cases of West Nile Viruses in San Angelo and it might have freaked you out. Check out the story inside to find out what the City of San Angelo is reporting about the cases.

OK, if you are a concerned citizen or you are just concerned about the well being of your self and those around you here is the story from the San Angelo-Tom Green County Health Department.

There has been 1 CONFIRMED West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease case, 1 case is under investigation and waiting laboratory confirmation, and one case that is indicative of PAST infection, based on laboratory results.No deaths among Tom Green County residents from West Nile virus have been confirmed as of  Aug. 15.

As a further note the Texas Department of State Health Services has reported a total of 381 confirmed cases in Texas as of August 14,2012. The count can be viewed at www.dshs.state.tx.us and is updated regularly.

If you are wandering how humans can contract the virus it comes from a mosquito that is infected with the virus biting you. Most people that are infected with the disease will never show any signs of it and will recover on their own, a smaller percentage will show some mild signs of having the virus which include headaches, nausea, vomiting, or a rash on the check stomach or back. Sever cases occur in about 1 in 150 people that are infected with the virus and include symptoms like high fever, neck stiffness,tremmors, weakness, disorientation, vision loss, numbness, and paralysis.

While there are not currently any medications to treat or vaccine prevention for the virus your actions can help to prevent contracting the virus. Here are some helpful tips to help you out:

-Use insect repellent that contains DEET

-Cover your body if you are going to be out, wear long sleeves and pants.

-Drain any standing water in your yard or around your home such as bird baths, unused water troughs.

-Clean pet dishes every two days or so.

-Clean up around your home and dispose of items like old tires that collect water.

The City of San Angelo has been spraying for mosquito's in known breeding areas and will continue to cover the city.