The first known Wyoming West Nile virus case for this year has been reported to the Wyoming Department of Health.

The victim has so far only been identified as "an older Platte County woman", and few specifics about her case have been made public. The disease is spread by mosquitoes, and the severity of West Nile virus infections varies widely.

While some people may not even realize they are sick, in other cases the infection can be fatal. Among those who do become ill, symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash and swollen lymph nodes.

More severe cases can also feature such things as disorientation, convulsions and paralysis.

Because the disease has now been identified in the state this year, Wyoming Department of Health officials are urging state residents to take precautions, including the following:

  1. DAWN  2) DUSK - Mosquitos prefer to feed at dawn or dusk, so avoid spending time outside during these times.
    3) DRESS - Wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt outdoors. Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly woven materials.
    4) DRAIN - Mosquitos breed in shallow, stagnant water. Reduce the amount of standing water by draining and/or removing.
    5) DEET - Use an insect repellent containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). When using DEET, be sure to read and follow label instructions. Other insect repellents such as Picaridin (KBR 3023) or oil of lemon eucalyptus can also be effective.

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