West Nile Virus

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 26, 2008

The Southern Nevada Health District’s vector control program has detected West Nile virus in several clusters of mosquitoes in the 89122, 89149 and 89108 zip codes.

The health district recently reported Clark County’s first probable human case associated with West Nile virus for 2008 in a male over age 50 who contracted the more serious form of the illness. The Nevada State Health Division reported a human case associated with West Nile virus in Lyon County. Positive mosquito clusters have also been identified in Pershing and Washoe counties.

In 2007, Nevada had a total of 12 human cases of West Nile virus, three of whom were residents of Clark County.

The health district continues to advise Southern Nevadans to protect themselves against mosquito bites by wearing repellent, avoiding outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, wearing appropriate clothing, removing standing water, and maintaining swimming pools.

Further updates will be posted to the Southern Nevada Health District website, www.SouthernNevadaHealthDistrict.org.

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The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.