Health officials in the Hawkeye State are reporting the first human West Nile virus (WNV) cases of 2016. The two cases, a female child and an adult male, both of Sioux County have since recovered following hospitalization for their illnesses, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH).
“West Nile virus season typically lasts from late summer into early autumn,” said IDPH Medical Director, Dr. Patricia Quinlisk. “These cases serve as a reminder to all Iowans that the West Nile virus is present and it’s important for Iowans to be using insect repellent when outdoors.”
Since the first WNV cases in Iowa were reported in 2002, the state has seen more than 460 cases. It has been found in every county in Iowa, either in humans, horses, or birds.
Approximately 20 percent of people infected with West Nile virus will have mild to moderate symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and vomiting. Less than one percent of people infected become seriously ill and rarely, someone dies.
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