SU student treated for West Nile virus

SU student treated for West Nile virusSeptember 10, 2002Kevin Morrowkdmorrow@syr.edu

A Syracuse University student was recently diagnosed with West Nile virus. The 19-year-old sophomore was treated at Crouse Hospital and has returned with her parents to her home in Illinois. The prognosis for a full recovery is good, following sustained bed rest.

The Onondaga County Health Department believes that the student contracted the virus in Illinois before arriving in Syracuse for the start of the fall semester.

West Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medical evidence to suggest that the virus can be spread from person to person or from an animal to a person. Symptoms include a high fever, confusion, muscle weakness and severe headaches. Individuals exhibiting these symptoms should see a health care provider immediately.

No vaccine exists for West Nile virus, but the condition can be treated.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile have been found in Onondaga County. SU Health Services advises the following precautions to help protect against infection:

• Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time after dusk.

• Apply mosquito repellent containing DEET over clothing; do not apply DEET directly to children, but instead apply it to your own hands and then to the child.

Questions on West Nile virus should be directed to SU Health Services at 443-2666 or the Onondaga County Health Department at 435-1649. Information can also be found at the County Health Department web site: http://www.co.onondaga.ny.us/Westnile/home.html