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Second human case of West Nile virus this year reported in Allegheny County

PITTSBURGH — A second human case of West Nile virus has been recorded in Allegheny County this year, the Allegheny County Health Department announced Tuesday.

The ACHD identified the person as a man in his 60s who lives in Pittsburgh’s Brighton Heights neighborhood. He experienced mild symptoms and was never hospitalized for the virus.

The ACHD said the man has recovered from the illness.

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The Pennsylvania Department of Health has reported eight other cases of West Nile virus this year to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a news release said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >> First human case of West Nile virus since 2021 reported in Allegheny County

The ACHD said it has set up more mosquito traps in Brighton Heights as part of its West Nile surveillance efforts. It has also treated five other areas where West Nile has been detected with a mosquito pesticide called Zenivex E20. The pesticide isn’t harmful to humans or pets.

The CDC said that 70-80% of people who become infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms and are not impacted.

Those who become infected and develop symptoms should look out for a fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash.

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According to the ACHD, most people with symptoms can recover on their own. Less than 1% of people will develop severe symptoms of neurological illness caused by inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues.

Anyone who believes they or someone they know has West Nile virus should consult a health care provider for evaluation and diagnosis, the ACHD said.

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The ACHD also urges residents to protect themselves against mosquitoes. You can do so by removing standing water in yards, making sure that open windows and doors have screens, and using insect repellent on exposed skin, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

For more information on the West Nile virus, including frequently asked questions about prevention, symptoms and transmission, visit the CDC’s webpage on the disease.