Georgia reports West Nile virus death, expects more cases

DPH expects more cases and urges residents to prevent mosquito bites. The agency has not identified where the human cases or death occurred.

ATLANTA (41NBC/WMGT) — Georgia has confirmed eight human cases of West Nile virus and one death this year, according to a news release Wednesday from the Georgia Department of Public Health.

DPH expects the number of cases to increase and says mosquito season typically lasts through October.

Mosquito traps have tested positive for the virus in several counties, including Chatham, Fulton and DeKalb. The release didn’t say where the human cases or death happened.

Most people infected with West Nile virus don’t develop symptoms. Others may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash, typically beginning two to six days after a bite from an infected mosquito.

Older adults, people with weakened immune systems and those with underlying medical conditions face a greater risk of severe complications, including infection of the central nervous system, according to DPH.

Preventing mosquito bites

DPH recommends using an EPA-registered insect repellent containing 20% to 30% DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

The department also recommends wearing light-colored clothing, including loose-fitting long sleeves, pants and socks. Mosquitoes bite during the day and at night.

Residents can reduce mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flowerpots, planters, children’s toys, wading pools and buckets after every rainfall or at least once a week.

Doors and windows should fit tightly and be in good repair to help keep mosquitoes outside.

Anyone with questions about West Nile virus should contact a health care provider or their county health department. More information about West Nile virus and its symptoms is is available here.