Second Case of West Nile Virus in Vermont Reported - FOX44 - Burlington / Plattsburgh News, Weather & Sports

Second Case of West Nile Virus in Vermont Reported

Posted: Updated:
BURLINGTON, Vt. -

Health officials in Vermont say a second person has been infected with West Nile virus.

The Vermont Department of Health said the person, who lives in Essex County, was bit by an infected mosquito at the end of August. That person is currently recovering, health officials said on Friday.

Lab results also showed that two alpacas from Highgate and Morrisville were infected.  Neither of these animals had been vaccinated for West Nile virus, and both have since died.

"People should continue to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites until we have had two or three good, hard frosts," said state epidemiologist Patsy Kelso.

Symptoms of the virus are often mild, but up to 20 percent of people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea and vomiting.

The Health Department is reminding Vermonters to avoid mosquito bites by taking the following precautions:

  • Wear long sleeves and pants and avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are active.
  • Reduce mosquito breeding habitats by getting rid of standing water and by draining areas where water can pool such as rain gutters, wading pools, and old tires.
  • Use repellents containing no more than 30 percent DEET on adults, and no more than 10 percent on children age 3 and older.
  • Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit the Vermont Department of Health website.

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