State health officials say they are still awaiting further results, but believe the state’s first human case of West Nile virus has been recorded in southwest Missouri’s Jasper County. A 67-year-old Joplin man is believed to be infected with the mosquito-borne illness. His identity is being withheld. Vector-Borne Disease Program Coordinator, Karen Yates, with the State Health Department says more tests are being done, but it appears the man is suffering from West Nile disease Yates says the case gives the department an opportunity to remind residents that this is the West Nile season and will remain so until the first hard freeze. Missouirans are being urged to cover up arms and legs when outside and wear an insect repellant with deet or something similar, get rid of standing water around the house that can be mosquito breeding grounds and work with neighbors to rid the neighborhood of standing water.
Related web sites:
West Nile Virus Info, Dept of Health