A total of three cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in Utah, with two in Cache County and one in Salt Lake County. The affected individuals were either hospitalized or recovering at home.
Health departments are urging people to take precautions against mosquito bites, as the number of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus has increased significantly this year. In fact, 108 mosquito samples have tested positive across the state, with cases found in multiple counties.
Symptoms of West Nile virus include fever, headache, rash, and body aches. However, many people who contract the disease may not experience symptoms at all or only have mild ones. The most severe form of the disease, neuroinvasive West Nile virus, can lead to debilitating complications or death.
Experts recommend protecting oneself from mosquito bites using “the 5 Ds”: Drain standing water, avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, use bug spray with DEET, dress in loose clothing, and ensure door and window screens are repaired.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51361247/3-human-cases-of-west-nile-virus-detected-in-salt-lake-cache-counties