By NewsDesk  @infectiousdiseasenews

Health officials in Stanislaus County, California have s confirmed the first two human West Nile virus (WNV) infections in the county. Both were adult males and did not have any symptoms.

Stanislaus County, CA
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West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted to people and animals through the bite of a mosquito infected with the virus. About one in five people will develop West Nile Fever with symptoms of headache, fever and fatigue. However, some people ‐‐ less than one percent ‐‐ will develop serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.

People 50 years of age and older have a higher chance of getting sick and aremore likely to develop
serious illness when infected with WNV. Studies also indicate that those with diabetes and/or hypertension are at greatest risk for serious illness. “With the arrival of summer, we all need to remember to protect ourselves from mosquito bites. Because there is no vaccine and no specific treatment, it is very important that people take all the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families,” advises Dr. Julie Vaishampayan, Stanislaus County Public Health Officer.

Nationally, the CDC has also reported human cases in Arizona, Arkansas and New Mexico through June 16.