The years-long drought that has been worrying Californians may now have even more immediate dangerous consequences, including a frightening increase in West Nile virus cases.
Public health officials in the state claimed that there were over 800 cases of West Nile virus reported last year. Of these, 31 patients died, creating the highest mortality rate from the virus since officials started monitoring it in 2003. This was also the highest West Nile death rate for any state nationwide in 2014.
The more serious form of the disease causes neurological damage, and can eventually result in encephalitis or meningitis. Usually only about one percent of people affected with the virus become seriously ill, but older folks – especially those with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure – are at a greater risk of developing complications.
The ongoing drought may have contributed to the spread of the virus by limiting water sources available to birds and disease-carrying mosquitoes, according to the Associated Press.
“As birds and mosquitoes sought water, they came into closer contact and amplified the virus, particularly in urban areas,” said Karen Smith, director and state health officer of the California Department of Public Health. “The lack of water could have caused some sources of water to stagnate, making the water sources more attractive for mosquitoes to lay eggs.”
Abnormally high temperatures also seem to be contributing to the spread of the disease. Typically, West Nile virus season begins in the summer, with peak risk times occurring mid-July through September. The hot, dry weather has encouraged the spread of the virus to start early this year. A West Nile virus-positive mosquito has already been recorded in the San Fernando Valley, several months ahead of schedule.
Symptoms of the virus can include a high fever, stiff neck, a severe headache, and confusion. To protect against contracting West Nile, health officials encourage everyone to use insect repellent and remove any sources of standing water close to their homes. They also remind citizens that mosquitoes are typically most active during dawn and dusk.
