All articles tagged with #mosquito borne illnesses
An outbreak of mosquito-borne viruses, mainly chikungunya and dengue, has caused dozens of deaths in Cuba, prompting health warnings and travel advisories. The outbreak is linked to poor hygiene and water storage issues, with climate change potentially expanding mosquito habitats. Authorities recommend precautions like insect repellent and vaccination, and are implementing mosquito control measures.
The first West Nile virus-related death of 2025 has been reported in suburban Cook County, Illinois, highlighting the ongoing risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. With 33 cases reported since May 11, nearly double the number from last year, health officials urge residents to take precautions such as reducing mosquito breeding sites, using repellents, and reporting stagnant water, especially as the risk remains high during warm weather.
The World Health Organization warns of a potential epidemic as the chikungunya virus spreads beyond its usual regions, affecting billions and reminiscent of past outbreaks, with prevention focusing on controlling mosquito populations.
Mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus, chikungunya, and dengue are increasing across Europe due to warmer temperatures and travel, with nearly 470 cases reported this year, affecting several countries and posing serious health risks especially to vulnerable populations.
Brevard County, Florida, is using mosquitofish as a natural and chemical-free method to control mosquito larvae, aiming to reduce the need for spraying and other treatments, especially amid rising mosquito-borne illness cases like dengue fever.
Two cases of West Nile Virus have been reported in Oklahoma County, marking the start of the season's infections. Health officials warn about symptoms and severe complications, advising protective measures like using insect repellent and eliminating standing water to prevent further spread.
The Asian Tiger mosquito, a species that arrived in the US in the 1970s, is spreading diseases such as dengue, West Nile virus, Zika, chikungunya, and malaria across the country. Experts warn that the US is unprepared for the threat posed by this mosquito species, and inaction will only make the situation worse. The workshop on mosquito-borne illnesses highlighted the increasing presence of tropical diseases in the US and the need for proactive measures to address the issue.
Infectious disease experts warn that yellow fever, a mosquito-borne disease, could make a comeback in the United States, particularly in the South. Recent clusters of cases of malaria, dengue, and West Nile virus indicate an increasing risk of arbovirus outbreaks due to factors such as poverty, inadequate housing, and mosquito-friendly environments. Yellow fever, which causes severe symptoms and can be deadly, has not caused an epidemic in the US for over a century. Cities like Galveston, Corpus Christi, Houston, Mobile, New Orleans, and Tampa are identified as high-risk areas. Experts urge prioritizing yellow fever in national pandemic preparedness efforts, as the country lacks routine vaccinations and a national stockpile of yellow fever vaccines.
Rhode Island has reported its first human case of West Nile virus this year, with a person in their 70s from Newport County contracting the virus in late August and now recovering. The state has detected West Nile in mosquito samples collected from various locations. Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, body aches, and nausea. Rhode Islanders are advised to take preventive measures such as using bug spray, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating stagnant water sources.
Two residents of Ottawa County, Michigan, who tested positive for West Nile virus are currently hospitalized. The individuals did not recently travel, indicating that they likely contracted the virus from infected mosquitoes in the region. This is the highest number of West Nile virus cases reported in Ottawa County since 2018. Symptoms of the virus include headaches, body aches, joint pain, and fatigue, with severe cases potentially leading to encephalitis or meningitis. Mosquito-borne illnesses remain a threat until the first hard freeze of the season, typically occurring in early October. As of September 15, Michigan has reported six cases of West Nile virus and three cases of Jamestown Canyon virus.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a high-risk warning for West Nile virus infections in most of the state, with 22 human cases reported this year, including three deaths. The virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, can infect humans, horses, birds, and other species. Most infections occur in late summer and early fall. The department advises using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito times, using screens on windows and doors, eliminating standing water, and considering vaccinations for horses. There are no vaccines or medications to prevent or treat West Nile in humans.
Public health officials in Florida are warning residents about the increased risk of mosquito-borne illnesses during the active hurricane season. Mosquitoes become a problem after hurricanes due to flooding, and the ease of travel and climate change have made it easier for these diseases to spread. Recent cases of locally acquired dengue fever have prompted health officials to issue alerts in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. However, efforts are being made by professionals in mosquito control to ensure Florida remains a safe place to live and visit.
A horse in Mecosta County, Michigan, has contracted Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), the first case in a domestic animal this year. EEE is a mosquito-borne virus that can be fatal to horses and humans. Another horse in Calhoun County has also contracted West Nile virus. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development advises horse owners to vaccinate their animals against EEE and West Nile, keep them indoors during peak mosquito activity, and use approved insect repellents. Four people in Michigan have contracted West Nile virus this year, and the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses will continue until the first hard freeze of the season.
A 73-year-old man from Mobile, Alabama, has died after being bitten by a mosquito carrying the West Nile Virus. The man's son recalls his father's rapid decline in health, including loss of reality, inability to feed himself, and organ failure. The Mobile County Health Department has reported the first human case of West Nile Virus for 2023 and is urging people to take precautions such as using mosquito repellent, draining standing water, and covering doors and windows with screens. Despite the tragedy, the son encourages people to continue enjoying nature while taking the necessary precautions.
West Nile virus remains the leading cause of viral disease spread by insects in the continental United States, according to a report by the CDC. In 2021, there were over 3,000 cases of arboviral disease reported, with West Nile virus accounting for the majority. The highest incidence rate of neuroinvasive West Nile virus disease was seen in Arizona. Mosquitoes play a crucial role in the spread of West Nile virus, which can cause severe illness and even death. The report also highlighted the La Crosse virus as the most common cause of neuroinvasive arboviral disease in children. Public health experts are warning of increased West Nile virus activity due to favorable weather conditions, and advise taking precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.