Wyoming reports first case of West Nile virus

The first case of West Nile virus in Wyoming this season has been reported to the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH), affecting a Sheridan County resident.

“We want to remind residents to take steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” said Katie Bryan, epidemiologist with WDH. The “five Ds” of West Nile Prevention, according to WDH, are:

Dawn and Dusk - Mosquitos prefer to feed at dawn or dusk, so avoid spending time outside during these times.

Dress - Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt outdoors. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials.

Drain - Mosquitos breed in shallow, stagnant water. Reduce the amount of standing water by draining and/or removing.

Deet - Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluaminde). When using DEET, be sure to read and follow label instructions. Other insect repellents such as Picaridin (KBR 3023) or oil of lemon eucalyptus can also be effective.

According to Bryan, at least two states surrounding Wyoming have reported cases of West Nile.

Last year, there were five reported cases in Wyoming. Since its appearance in 2002, there have been years with two cases and no deaths as well as years with 393 cases and nine deaths.

Most infected will not show symptoms, however those that become symptomatic may experience fever, headaches, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes. Rarely, people will develop West Nile neuroinvasive disease, experiencing symptoms such as severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis.