Health Officials Warn West Nile on the Rise

(KNSI) – West Nile virus is on the rise in Minnesota.

The state Department of Health says there have already been 20 cases this year, with two fatalities. The total number of cases is likely undercounted, as the average person who contracts the virus typically has no symptoms or only mild ones, similar to the flu. Under 1% of infections cause encephalitis, which leads to inflammation around the brain.

Officials are releasing the figures as a matter of caution. They note West Nile cases ebb and flow due to a variety of factors. Heavy rain across Minnesota this year has proven to be perfect breeding conditions for mosquitoes, the primary transmitter of the virus.

Unfortunately, there is no medical treatment for West Nile. Prevention usually lies in avoiding mosquitoes. Recommendations include wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and full pants, using insect repellents that contain DEET, trying to schedule outdoor activities away from dusk and dawn, and ensuring the screens on your home windows are in good working order.

MDH says cases have been identified in all corners of the state.

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