Kansas Monitors Serious West Nile Virus Cases as Mosquito Season Peaks

Kansas health officials are closely monitoring an uptick in serious cases of West Nile virus (WNV) as mosquito season reaches its peak. As of August 15, 2023, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) reported six confirmed cases, of which five are classified as serious, indicating significant health concerns for those affected.

The confirmed cases are spread across the state, with three reported in the north-central region and three in the south-central area. According to KDHE, five of the six cases are categorized as neuroinvasive, which refers to cases that affect the central nervous system and are generally more severe. Jill Bronaugh, a spokesperson for KDHE, explained that non-neuroinvasive cases, though still concerning, present with milder symptoms similar to the flu.

“Neuroinvasive cases are those in which there is clinical evidence of involvement of the central nervous system in the disease process,” Bronaugh stated. Symptoms of neuroinvasive cases can include high fever, brain inflammation, disorientation, paralysis, muscle weakness, and even vision loss. These cases often require extensive medical intervention and can lead to longer recovery times.

Although the current numbers of West Nile virus cases are lower than last year’s totals, health officials caution that the risk may increase as mosquito activity tends to peak in late summer. In 2022, Kansas recorded a total of 64 infections, which resulted in four fatalities. This year’s figures highlight the potential for rising health risks as conditions become more favorable for mosquito breeding.

KDHE maintains a West Nile virus dashboard that is updated weekly during the surveillance season, which runs from July through September. According to the CDC, WNV is primarily transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes, with peak transmission occurring from August to early September. Each year, approximately 2,000 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with the virus, although the actual numbers may be higher due to under-reporting of mild symptoms.

Typical symptoms of West Nile virus usually manifest 2 to 6 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. These can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, and in severe cases, tremors, convulsions, and paralysis. While there are no specific medications available to treat West Nile virus, the CDC reports that most infected individuals recover fully.

Health officials emphasize the importance of taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Recommendations include using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and long pants when outdoors, and eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

With mosquito season underway, public awareness and proactive measures are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with West Nile virus in Kansas.