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Div. of Media Relations
1600 Clifton Road
MS D-14
Atlanta, GA 30333
(404) 639-3286
Fax (404) 639-7394 |
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West
Nile Virus Home
Press Release
| July 8, 2003 |
Contact: CDC Media Relations
404-639-3286 |
CDC Confirms Nation's First Human Case of
West Nile in 2003
The nations first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in 2003 was
confirmed in South Carolina yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC). WNV, a seasonal infection transmitted by mosquitoes, grew
from an initial U.S. outbreak of 62 disease cases in 1999 to 4,156 reported
cases, including 284 deaths, in 2002.
Public health workers across the country have been preparing for this
moment for several months. It is impossible to predict what this years
season will hold; however, the recurrence of West Nile Virus in humans is a
compelling reminder of the importance of individual preparedness in
preventing disease, said Dr. Julie Gerberding, CDC Director. Knowing how
rapidly West Nile Virus spread last year, we urge everyone who spends time
outdoors to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Three simple actions can help prevent infection: avoiding mosquito bites
by using insect repellants with DEET and wearing light, long-sleeved
clothing, mosquito-proofing your home by emptying standing water and
installing screens, and helping your community by reporting dead birds to
local health authorities, Gerberding said.
In 2002, WNV spread to all but six states, with 39 states and the
District of Columbia reporting human cases. To date, WNV activity detected
in mosquitoes, birds, and horses is comparable to that observed last year.
West Nile virus may be transmitted when an infected mosquito bites a
human to take in blood. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on
infected birds, which may circulate the virus in their blood for a few days.
In addition, recent investigations confirmed WNV transmission through
transplanted organs and transfused blood. The recent introduction of routine
WNV screening of blood donations should greatly reduce the risk of spread of
WNV through transfused blood.
Only about two persons of every 10 who are bitten by an infected mosquito
will experience any illness. Although illness from WNV is usually mild,
serious illness and death are possible, particularly for persons over the
age of 50.
More information about WNV can be found at
www.cdc.gov.
# # #
CDC protects people's health and safety by preventing and
controlling diseases and injuries; enhances health decisions by providing
credible information on critical health issues; and promotes healthy living
through strong partnerships with local, national, and international
organizations.
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