West Nile cases up in Douglas

Four more cases of West Nile virus were reported in Douglas County, bringing the total to 14 this season, a 40 percent jump over last week's total of 10 cases.

The new cases include another case of the neuroinvasive form of the disease in a person over 50, which includes meningitis, encephalitis or both. A second person over 50 has developed fever and the last two new cases reported were mild.

Statewide, the number of cases rose from 68 to 84 this week.

Neighboring Lyon County reported one more case in a person over the age of 50, bringing their total to 11. In Carson City, one more case was reported in a person over 50, bringing their total to five.

Both cases involved fever, but not the severe neuroinvasive forms of the disease.

Elko County has the highest total in the state with 15, but Douglas and Humboldt counties are both running a close second, with reported 14 cases for each.

The disease is transmitted to humans when they are bitten by mosquitoes, so the best way to reduce the risk is to "fight the bite," according to information provided by the Nevada State Health Department.

Mosquito repellent DEET and Picardin typically provide longer-lasting protection than others and both are recommended by reviewed and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for efficacy and safety, when properly applied.

Oil of lemon eucalyptus, a plant-based repellent, provides protection similar to those repellents with low concentrations of DEET when tested with mosquitoes from the United States.

When choosing DEET repellent, check the label for products a containing 20-30 percent concentration for adults and no more than 10 percent for children.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is acceptable to use 10 percent DEET on children over two months of age, but other medical agencies use two years of age as a guide.

Follow the label's instructions carefully, especially when applying to children.

All mosquitoes require water to breed and they will lay their eggs in stagnant water around the home. Even a small bucket with stagnant water in it for a few days can become home to up to 1,000 mosquito larvae.

Water in irrigated fields can also provide a mosquito breeding source.

Weeds, tall grass, shrubbery and discarded tires can provide an outdoor home for adult mosquitoes, according to the Nevada State Health Division.

For more information, access their Web site at health2k.state.nv.us/php/WNVCurrent/WNVprevention.htm

Susie Vasquez can be reached at svasquez@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 211.