West Nile Virus (WNV) was first detected in Kansas in August of 2002. Since then, there have been 22 human cases in Kansas. Although none of these cases resulted in death, West Nile Virus should be taken seriously and everyone should take simple precautions to reduce their risk.
The Kansas Department of Health & Environment (KDHE) has been monitoring the spread of the virus since it was first detected in the United States in the summer of 1999. It was anticipated that West Nile would hit Kansas in 2002, and an increase in repeated cases is expected for 2003. Dr. Gail Hansen, Acting State Epidemiologist for the State of Kansas, has been anticipating the virus in Kansas for some time. “The fact that the virus has appeared in Kansas really came as no surprise, the rapidity that it seemed to spread was surprising. That’s why we continue to monitor for the disease,” said Hansen. It is the goal of KDHE to educate all Kansans about West Nile Virus, so everyone can be a part of controlling the spread of this virus.
West Nile Virus is usually considered a virus of birds. It is transmitted when a mosquito bites an infected bird and then bites another animal or human. It is not normally spread from person to person or directly from birds. There is no evidence that other insects or ticks transmit the virus. Elderly people or those with weakened immune systems are most at risk, but anyone can be infected. In most cases West Nile Virus only causes mild illness, but in rare cases can cause death. At this time a vaccine for the virus does not exist for people.
To learn more about West Nile Virus and preventing infection go to www.oznet.ksu.edu/westnilevirus.