March 29, 2024

Iowa reports first West Nile virus case

DES MOINES (AP) — Iowa is reporting its first case of West Nile virus this year.

The Iowa Department of Public Health announced Tuesday that the first person infected is a man, between the age of 18 and 40, who lives in Clay County.

Patricia Quinlisk, the agency’s medical director, says the man is recovering. Details about the man weren’t released.

About 20 percent of people infected with West Nile virus have mild to moderate symptoms, including fever, headache and vomiting. Less than 1 percent become seriously ill, and people can occasionally die of the disease.

The virus first appeared in Iowa in 2002. Last year, there were 44 confirmed cases and no deaths.

Mosquitoes carrying the virus usually lay eggs in stagnant water, so it’s important to eliminate standing water whenever possible.