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INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (KCTV) — A Jackson County resident has died from neuro-invasive West Nile virus, health officials say.
The Jackson County Health Department said this represents the second neuro-invasive West Nile virus death in Jackson County this year.
West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito.
“Although we’re moving towards the end of warm weather, mosquitoes that could potentially carry West Nile virus remain active until the first hard frost,” Jackson County Health Department Health Director Bridgette Shaffer said. “It’s important for everyone to continue taking precautions like using insect repellent, wearing long sleeve shirts and pants, and staying indoors between dusk and dawn.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 80 percent of people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms, while about 1 in 5 will develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.
“While the risk of serious complications from West Nile virus may be minimal, severe illness can occur in people of any age,” Shaffer said. “All residents, especially those 60 and older or with certain medical conditions, should continue to take precautionary measure to prevent mosquito bites.”
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