Philadelphia reports first West Nile virus cases this season
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West Nile virus is spreading in the Philadelphia region, with the city reporting its first cases of the season last week, per state and local data.
Why it matters: Most human cases are asymptomatic, but some infections can cause serious illness, including debilitating, long-term complications or death.
State of play: West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in the majority of Pennsylvania counties this year, with at least a dozen human infections statewide, per the state.
- Philadelphia reported on Aug. 15 that two people were infected with a severe form of the virus that can affect the nervous system.
- Several other cases were reported in the region in recent months.
Driving the news: Health officials across the region tell Axios they're trying to minimize the risk of infection to people and birds, including by deploying surveillance programs and spraying water-bound areas where mosquitoes lay eggs.
- Since May, Philadelphia has sprayed for larvae and mosquitos at nearly 100 locations across the city.
Zoom in: Montgomery County, which has reported a single case, has set up about 500 mosquito traps this year.
- This week, the Hatboro Little League halted baseball games at its complex after mosquitoes from a nearby trap tested positive for the virus, Richard Lorraine, the county's medical director, told Axios.
Meanwhile, Bucks County has spent about $170,000 on mosquito mitigation efforts this year. They've had two human infections so far this year, up from one last year.
- Raymond Buckley, Bucks County's mosquito disease control coordinator, tells Axios the county has had more than 10% of their traps test positive for the virus this year.
Generally, officials say they're seeing more positive pools in areas with creeks and canals.
By the numbers: More than 40% of 677 mosquito traps tested in Philadelphia since May were positive for the virus.
- Positive mosquito pools are scattered across Philadelphia, including Fairmount and Pennypack parks.
- Philadelphia County (325) is No. 1 in the state with the most positive pools, Bucks County (126) is fifth and Montgomery County (72) is ninth, per state and local data.
What they're saying: Health officials say people can take steps, such as wearing long sleeve shirts and using repellant, to protect themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes carrying the virus.
- But there's still a risk of contracting the virus throughout mosquito season, which runs from April to October when the first frost hits.
Other recommendations:
- Keep weeds and tall grass trimmed short, and drain standing water from yards and other spots like old tires and plant container trays.
- Clear roof gutters.
- Keep garden ponds clean and stocked with mosquito-eating fish or mosquito "dunks" — chemical pellets that dissolve and kill larvae.
- Repair door and window screens to keep mosquitos out of your home.