West Nile virus has spread to humans in Oregon, according to state lab results on two human cases.
On Tuesday afternoon Oregon Health Authority officials confirmed that two individuals aged 50 or older, one each in Malheur and Coos counties, have tested positive for the virus. One is a woman, the other a man.
"This is timely in that labor day weekend is coming up and people tend to spend time outside," Oregon Health Authority veterinarian Emilio DeBess said. "We just need to remind people, especially people who are going to be outside, to protect themselves against mosquito bites."
West Nile has been detected around the country, but before this week officials had detected the virus only in animals in Oregon this year, including a horse in Klamath County, a bird in Malheur County, and in mosquito populations in Jackson, Morrow and Malheur counties.
Detection of the virus in Coos County -- a first in Oregon -- and across the state should be a wake-up call, DeBess said. Anyone bitten by a mosquito should see a doctor if they notice symptoms like severe headaches or general malaise.
Officials say most West Nile infections are mild, with flu-like symptoms. However, people over 50, with high blood pressure or compromised immune systems are at risk for more severe infections, ones that can lead to inflammation of the brain, neurological damage and even death.
Officials recommend taking precautions:
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
- Make sure screen doors and windows fit tightly and are in good repair.
- Eliminate sources of standing water that breed mosquitoes, including watering troughs and clogged gutters.
- When outdoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are most active, protect yourself by using mosquito repellents containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or Picaridin.
Additional information about West Nile is available at:
-- Nick Budnick