This Tuesday, the West Nile Virus was found to be present in the alamosa mosquito population. West Nile Virus is a serious issue that currently does not have a vaccine. Please take precautions when going outdoors, by wearing clothing that covers the majority of your skin and wearing an effective repellant that contains 20-30% DEET. For more information about the West Nile Virus, please see the following article from the CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/westnile/faq/genquestions.html
What is West Nile virus?
West Nile virus is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) most commonly spread by infected mosquitoes. West Nile virus can cause febrile illness, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).
West Nile virus transmission has been documented in Europe and the Middle East, Africa, India, parts of Asia, and Australia. It was first detected in North America in 1999, and has since spread across the continental United States and Canada.
How do people get infected with West Nile virus?
Most people get infected with West Nile virus by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to humans and other animals.
In a very small number of cases, West Nile virus has been spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding.
