The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting the second case of West Nile virus in a Clark County resident in 2017. The latest involves a female, over the age of 50, that has the more serious neuroinvasive form of the illness.
The county’s first case of West Nile virus was reported in May. That patient, a male over the age of 50 died from the illness.
There were two reported West Nile cases and three cases of St. Louis Encephalitis, a similar mosquito-borne illness, in 2016.
“An additional report of serious illness serves as a reminder to our community of the importance of taking precautions against mosquito bites,” said Dr. Joe Iser, Chief Health Officer for the Health District. “Mosquitoes are still quite active in Southern Nevada. We urge everyone to take simple steps to eliminate mosquito breeding sources around their homes to protect themselves, their families, and communities.”
Be sure to take the proper steps in protecting yourself and your family members while enjoying this upcoming Labor Day weekend.
