On Aug. 13, Georgetown County Mosquito Control and the South Carolina Department of Public Health identified a West Nile-positive mosquito sample during routine surveillance. The confirmation follows reports earlier this month of two human cases in Myrtle Beach.
“Mosquitoes spread a variety of diseases, but West Nile virus is one of the most concerning because it can occasionally cause severe illness,” said Dr. Sean Nguyen, chief medical officer at Tidelands Health. “While most people who become infected won’t develop symptoms, it’s important to take precautions to reduce your risk of mosquito bites.”
Older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at the greatest risk for severe illness.
“These recent detections are a reminder that mosquito-borne diseases are active in our communities during the summer months,” Dr. Nguyen said. “Simple prevention measures can make a significant difference in protecting yourself and your family.”
Most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms. About one in five people infected becomes ill within two to 14 days with symptoms including fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain and occasionally nausea and vomiting.
Although rare, severe illness can occur and may include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Confusion or disorientation
- Muscle weakness
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Vision problems
- Paralysis
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
- Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, or IR 3535 according to label instructions. Repellents help keep mosquitoes from biting.
- Wear clothing that reduces skin exposure.
- Exposure to mosquitoes is most common during the early morning. Some species bite during the day, especially in wooded or other shaded areas. Avoid exposure during these times and in these areas. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes.
- Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including flowerpots, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls.