Iowa’s First Case of West Nile Virus Confirmed

Beware the annoying mosquito bite that is potentially deadly.

Iowa Department of Public Health has issued notice of the first case of West Nile Virus in 2017 in the state of Iowa. A middle aged man in Ida County tested positive for the virus. He was not hospitalized, and is recovering.

“West Nile virus season typically lasts from late summer into early autumn,” said IDPH Deputy Epidemiologist, Dr. Ann Garvey. “This case serves as a reminder to all Iowans that the West Nile virus is present and it’s important for Iowans to use insect repellent when outdoors.”

While death from West Nile Virus is not a common occurrence, it can happen in rare cases. Regardless, the disease can cause many unwelcome symptoms including fever, headaches, body aches and vomiting. It ain't no picnic.

To help avoid mosquito bites you should take these four steps:

1. Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
2. Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
3. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks whenever possible outdoors.
4. Eliminate standing water around the home where mosquitoes lay eggs.

[source: IDPH]