Steve Howie is the Emergency Management Coordinator and he advised that at least two of the victims have already recovered from the West Nile symptoms. He believes the third victim is nearly recovered from his symptoms and he is awaiting further information on the fourth reported victim. There have been no cases reported in Forney. The City of Forney sprayed for mosquitos in the areas with parks and creeks on Sunday, August 5, 2012. They will be spraying again on the August 12th and 26th in the parks and creeks areas. Howie said that Terrell has already sprayed and will spray again to kill mosquitos.
The incubation period for West Nile is 2 to 15 days, though most people who have West Nile will never display symptoms. Symptoms of the West Nile virus include fever, headache, swollen glands, body aches, and fatigue. The symptoms are very flu like and if you display these symptoms Howie advises, “Go see your doctor immediately and get checked out.” (For additional information on signs and symptoms of West Nile Virus, see the Texas Department of State Health website here).
People age 50 and over, or with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to having severe reactions to the West Nile virus. 10 people from North Texas have already died from the disease. Howie says another sign that your area may have a West Nile virus issue are dead birds in the area. If you suspect your neighborhood may have a West Nile problem, contact the Texas Department of State Health Services at (512) 776-7111 or 1-888-963-7111.
Tips to avoid being bitten by mosquitos
*Dress in light colored long sleeves and pants when you will be outside.
*Avoid being outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are out in full force.
*If you must be outside, apply insect repellant containing Deet to any exposed skin.
Click here to see the Kaufman County Emergency Management Facebook page.
**Update: As of Aug. 12 there are 3 reported cases of West Nile Virus and 2 cases of West Nile Flu in Kaufman County.
