West Nile Detected In Eastern Washington

SEATTLE — The West Nile virus season has started for Washington state, with reports of mosquitos carrying the virus in both Benton and Yakima counties. Normally, virus season starts around July or August and can last through early October.

The Washington State Department of Health says, so far, they've found just seven positive samples of the virus this year, and no human cases have been reported, but they're warning everyone to take precautions all the same.

If a mosquito carrying the disease bites and infects a human, the West Nile virus can be serious and even deadly in some extreme cases. On top of humans, it can also infect horses, birds, and other animals.

To prevent mosquito bites, the DOH recommends residents:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents.
• Cover up, wearing long sleeves and pants with socks when outdoors.
• Avoid being out during "mosquito prime time." Mosquitos are more likely to bite in the evening between dusk and dawn, so be extra careful during the overnight hours.

The majority of people who do catch West Nile do not get sick, but one in five will develop a fever or other symptoms, and one in 150 will have much more severe symptoms like headache, high fever, neck stiffness, tremors and more. Anyone who is experiencing those symtpoms should contact their health care provider immediately.