Minnesota Warning: Cases Rising, Now 2 Deaths From Mosquito-Borne Disease

Now that the hottest days of summer appear behind us and fall is fast approaching, people may start letting their guard down a bit when it comes to taking some precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

However, the threat of getting a disease transmitted by mosquitoes remains through September, and even longer, depending on weather conditions.

The most common mosquito-borne disease in Minnesota is the West Nile Virus, and thankfully, most people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes will experience either no symptoms or a mild flu-like illness.

However, less than 1% of people who are infected develop encephalitis or meningitis (inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues). Elderly patients and those with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk for severe disease, followed by people who work outside or participate in outdoor activities.

Symptoms usually show up within one to two weeks, and there is no treatment for the illness other than supportive care.

Get our free mobile app

Recently, Minnesota health officials issued a warning to residents after seeing a spike in the number of West Nile Virus cases in the state.

Minnesota Department Of Health Warns Of Recent Spike In West Nile Virus Cases

Recently, the Minnesota Department of Health announced there have been 20 cases of West Nile virus so far this year in Minnesota. Two of the affected people have died.

Cases of West Nile virus disease have been found throughout the state, with the highest risk areas for the disease including the agricultural regions of western and central Minnesota. Nationally, other states in the western and central U.S., including Iowa, North and South Dakota, are also seeing increased activity.

Health officials note that the number of cases can vary significantly from year to year due to factors like heat and rainfall, but a recent increase in the number of confirmed cases prompted them to encourage everyone in Minnesota to take precautions.

SEE NOW: Food Experts Say This Is Now The Best Slice Of Pizza In Minnesota

“This is a high-risk time of year for West Nile virus transmission,” said Elizabeth Schiffman, supervisor of MDH’s Vectorborne Diseases Unit. “It’s important to prevent mosquito bites when people are enjoying time outside while the weather is still nice. That’s the best way to avoid getting West Nile virus.”

To protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites, health officials recommend taking the following precautions:

• Use insect repellents that are registered by the Environmental Protection Agency and contain up to 30% DEET.
• Pretreat clothing and gear with permethrin-based products.
• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Be extra cautious or avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, the peak feeding time for many mosquitoes, particularly from July through September.
• Keep mosquitoes out of your home by maintaining screens on windows and doors.