EBS STAFF
State and local health officials have confirmed the first detections of West Nile virus in Montana this summer, after two mosquito pools tested positive in Roosevelt County. No human or horse infections have been reported yet, but the Department of Public Health and Human Services stated in an Aug. 11 press release that detection is an early sign that virus activity and risk of human illness is likely to increase across the state as long as mosquitoes remain active.
“West Nile virus symptoms span a wide spectrum, with many people experiencing prolonged, flu-like fatigue and body aches, while others remain entirely asymptomatic,” said DPHHS Vectorborne Disease Epidemiologist Devon Cozart in the release. “The risk of severe illness is a serious concern; every year, some Montanans experience neurological complications that can cause permanent disability or death. We urge everyone to take steps to mitigate these risks by making mosquito bite prevention a daily habit.”
There is no vaccine or targeted treatment for WNV in humans. About one in five infected people develop mild symptoms such as headache, rash, body aches and fatigue, while roughly 1 in 150 develop severe, neuroinvasive disease that can cause disorientation, paralysis or death. Horses can also be infected, though a veterinary vaccine is available. DPHHS recommends the “4 Ds” of prevention: using EPA-approved repellent (DEET or picaridin), draining standing water around homes, avoiding peak mosquito activity at dawn and dusk, and dressing in long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
