Panhandle sees first human West Nile cases

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -- The Panhandle Public Health District reported Wednesday morning that the first human cases of West Nile virus for the Panhandle have been reported. 

PPHD said there have been several human West Nile cases in the Panhandle that have been investigated this summer so far. 

West Nile is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. 

West Nile fever includes flu-like symptoms such as fever and muscle weakness. Other symptoms may involve nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph glands, and/or a skin rash on the chest, stomach or back.  Symptoms of the more serious West Nile encephalitis include inflammation of the brain, disorientation, convulsions and paralysis. Those over 50 or with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to the disease and are more likely to experience serious consequences.

The best way to prevent West Nile is to practice prevention of mosquito bites. To avoid mosquito bites, Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD) recommends:

• Applying mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants and socks when out hiking.
• Avoiding going out at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

Standing water should be drained whenever possible or treated with bacillus thuringensis (BTI) briquettes. Use briquettes in places where mosquitoes breed such as ponds, bird baths, unused swimming pools, flower pots, rain barrels, old tires, and any other place where water collects.

PPHD and Scotts Bluff County Health Department said they are currently testing mosquito samples for the virus. Over the previous 5 years (2018-2022) Nebraska has averaged 9 positives through the month of August. There are currently 12x as many mosquitoes testing positive this season.