Oklahoma County Confirms West Nile Virus Outbreak

West Nile Virus Cases Confirmed in Oklahoma County

The Oklahoma County Health Department has confirmed two cases of the West Nile Virus (WNV), marking the first reported infections in the area this season. Health officials in Oklahoma are warning residents about the dangers of mosquito-borne illnesses.

According to a news release issued by the department, West Nile Virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the United States. While most people who contract WNV do not develop symptoms, one in five individuals may experience symptoms such as fever, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.

Officials from the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) reported the first human case and death caused by West Nile Virus in a Southwest Oklahoma resident. The virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, specifically the Culex mosquito, which feeds on infected birds before spreading the virus to humans.

During Oklahoma’s experience with West Nile virus, there have been 318 confirmed cases of human disease, resulting in lengthy hospital stays and unfortunately, 20 deaths in the state. To protect yourself from West Nile Virus, health officials recommend using insect repellent containing Deet and wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors to prevent mosquito bites.

As mosquito season begins in Oklahoma County, officials are urging residents to take precautions to keep their yards safe from mosquitoes. Barry Christensen, operations manager at Thunder Pest Control, stated, “Just a lot of mosquitoes around, we’re receiving about 15-20 calls a day.” In addition to using mosquito larvacide at home, residents are encouraged to report any possible sources of mosquito breeding sites in Oklahoma County.