West Nile Virus: It Could Be Worse
Well, that's a relief. Last year's West Nile virus season turned out to be the mildest in eight years, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and this summer promises the same.
Here's an excerpt from the AP story:
U.S. health officials on Thursday said there were 386 cases of severe West Nile illness and 33 deaths last year. That's a far cry from the peak years of 2002 and 2003, when illnesses numbered nearly 3,000 and deaths surpassed 260
One possible reason for fewer cases is that birds may be developing immunity to the virus.
And if you're looking for a vacation destination where you're highly unlikely to be bitten by an infected mosquito, consider Nova Scotia, where there's never been a human case and no birds have tested positive for the virus since 2003.
Are you covering West Nile prevention or monitoring in your community? If so, what's happening? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to check out our tips for reporting on West Nile virus.
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