July 28, 2003 - HEALTH SECRETARY SAYS TESTS SHOW FIRST HUMAN CASEOF WEST NILE VIRUS THIS YEAR IN PENNSYLVANIA

Patient recovered; Pennsylvanians reminded to
take action to prevent mosquito-breeding sites.

 HARRISBURG: Health Secretary Dr. Calvin Johnson today reported the first human case of West Nile virus in Pennsylvania this year.  The individual, a 46-year-old Philadelphia woman, has fully recovered from the illness.

“The fact we have seen the first human infection from West Nile reminds all of us that we should take precautions to help reduce the risk of illness,” Secretary Johnson said. “The case is not unexpected, since we’ve known for several months -- through bird, mosquito and animal testing -- that West Nile virus is present in Pennsylvania.”

Secretary Johnson urged Pennsylvanians to keep proper perspective on the health risks of West Nile.

“The chance of contracting West Nile virus from an infected mosquito is small,” Secretary Johnson said.  “Even if you’re bitten by an infected mosquito, your chances of becoming seriously ill are even smaller.  However, it is important to keep in mind that all Pennsylvanians -- particularly older adults and people with compromised immune systems -- should take simple precautions to reduce their risk.”

Secretary Johnson recommends these simple precautions to prevent mosquito bites, particularly for those most at risk:

• Eliminate standing water in any type of containers, including tin cans, plastic containers, bird baths or ceramic pots;
• Remove standing water from discarded tires;
• Clean clogged roof gutters and drains, especially if leaves from surrounding trees tend to plug up drains;
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools;
• Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use;
• Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish; and
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors.

West Nile virus is spread to people and animals by infected mosquitoes.  The virus can cause West Nile encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.  While anyone can contract the virus, older adults and people with compromised immune systems are at highest risk of developing the disease.

People with mild infections of West Nile virus may experience fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph glands.  People with more serious infections may experience high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional convulsions and paralysis.  Secretary Johnson advises anyone with any of these symptoms to contact a doctor. There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus.  While most people fully recover, in severe cases, hospitalization is needed.

"West Nile Virus also poses a significant threat to unvaccinated horses," said Agriculture Secretary Dennis C Wolff.  "It is important for all citizens--particularly horse owners and farmers -- to be aware of the risk factors and take measures to protect both themselves and their animals from the virus."

So far this year in Pennsylvania, West Nile virus has been found in seven birds, 30 mosquito samples and one veterinary sample. The virus has been detected in 23 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. Pennsylvanians should presume that West Nile virus is present throughout the state and should take appropriate precautions.

Since January 1, there have been 16 identified human cases of West Nile virus in nine states across the country.
  
For more information about West Nile virus, including current test results for mosquitoes, birds and horses, visit the West Nile virus website at www.westnile.state.pa.us or call the Department of Health at 1-877-PA HEALTH.