The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has reported the first positive mosquito pool for the West Nile virus (WNV) in the city this year.
Positive Sample Found Near Pennypack Park
The virus was found in a mosquito pool taken near Pennypack Park in Northeast Philadelphia, officials reported Friday, according to an ABC News report. No cases have been detected among humans in the city yet, but health authorities are expecting more mosquito pools to test positive for the virus in Philadelphia in the weeks to come.
A Wyoming News report stated that outside Philadelphia city limits, three positive samples have been reported, including in Albany County, Wyoming. The local mosquito control teams have tested 54 pooled samples of the Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, the known vector of WNV in the region. Two birds have also tested positive for the virus in the state.
CDC Assesses Risk as Low
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has evaluated the prevailing level of risk as ‘low’ with sporadic virus only reported in birds and mosquitoes.
In an effort to counteract the threat caused by mosquitoes, the mosquito control teams are fogging areas showing increased activity and performing targeted larval control in recreational places such as parks, golf courses, and trails, Wyoming News further reported.
Health Advisory for Philadelphia Residents
In Philadelphia, people were warned not to attempt avoiding bites, particularly during dusk and at night when mosquitoes are most active. Citizens have been asked to wear long-sleeved clothing and pants. Citizens have also been reminded that individuals diagnosed with West Nile virus should not donate blood or organs for 120 days after the diagnosis.
West Nile virus is a viral infection acquired through mosquito bites, most commonly from mosquitoes of the Culex genus, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. West Nile virus is common in the US and other nations and is a member of the flavivirus group, together with St Louise encephalitis and Powassan viruses.
Symptoms and Risks of WNV Infection
Although the majority of virus-infected individuals remain asymptomatic, approximately 1 in 5 patients have a fever associated with headache and body/muscle/joint pain or rash. Severe manifestations of neurologic nature such as encephalitis and meningitis occur in 1 in every 150 infected individuals, the elderly, and individuals with ongoing diseases being most susceptible.
No antiviral medication is available against West Nile virus, but rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain medication or fever reducers can cure the illnesses in most situations. Severe cases require hospitalization.
City Officials Warn of Increased Risk
“When we detect our first mosquitoes that are infected with West Nile virus, we tend to see the spread of West Nile virus among mosquitoes throughout the city,” Gayle Mendoza, communications deputy director for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, said, per CBS News.
“So that means that there’s more mosquitoes that we have with that, the risk for potential human infection is going to increase for the rest of the season,” Mendoza added.
FAQs:
Q1: What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is a flavivirus commonly spread through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. It can cause mild to severe illness, including fever and, in rare cases, neurological diseases.
Q2: Where was the virus detected in Philadelphia?
The virus was found in mosquitoes near Pennypack Park in Northeast Philadelphia, making it the city’s first positive mosquito pool this year.
Q3: Are there any human cases reported in Philadelphia?
No, as of now, no human infections have been reported in the city.
Q4: What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?
Most people do not experience symptoms. Some may develop fever, headaches, and body aches. Severe cases can involve brain inflammation or meningitis, especially in older adults.
