(Estherville)– Here’s more proof as to why it’s important to protect yourself against mosquitos.
Emmet County Public Health Director Karen Miller says three cases of West Nile Virus were confirmed Wednesday in three adults in Emmet county. Two females and one male have tested positive for the virus.
West Nile is transmitted to people to when they’ve been bitten by infected mosquitos. Symptoms range from mild headaches and tiredness to flu-like symptoms. In severe cases, the virus can shut down the body’s nervous system from several hours to days. An even more severe form of West Nile can lead to encephalitis…a swelling of the brain…which in rare cases can be deadly.
About 25 percent of Iowa counties have reported cases of West Nile Virus so far this season. Numerous cases have also been reported in Minnesota.
