US West Nile Cases Climb to 56 in 15 States, Highest for This Point Since 2004
Updated
Updated · Daily Star · Jul 10
US West Nile Cases Climb to 56 in 15 States, Highest for This Point Since 2004
3 articles · Updated · Daily Star · Jul 10
Summary
56 confirmed West Nile cases have been reported across 15 US states, with CDC data showing the highest level for this point in the year since 2004.
44 of those 56 cases are neuroinvasive, affecting the nervous system, while CDC officials say the jump is an early warning that mosquito season is already well underway.
48 human cases had been recorded by the end of June this year, versus an average of 10 since 2004; the US mosquito season typically runs from June to October and peaks in August and September.
West Nile is the leading mosquito-borne disease in the US, infecting about 2,000 people a year, causing roughly 1,300 severe central nervous system cases and more than 130 deaths.
The rise comes as North America hosts the World Cup, sharpening public-health concerns alongside other outbreak risks; CDC advises repellent, long clothing, limiting nighttime exposure and using window screens.