A 92-year-old Dunwoody woman has died after contracting West Nile virus, according to the Dekalb county Heath Department.
This is the second reported West Nile virus-related human case in Dunwoody in less than a month.
DeKalb County District Health Director Sandra Elizabeth Ford says Dekalb is a hot sport for West Nile positive mosquitoes. "We have so many positive pools in this county, which means the West Nile mosquitoes are out there," says Ford.
The most effective way to prevent infection from West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, treat clothing and gear, and take steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors.
In about 75% of infections people have few or no symptoms. About 20% of people develop a fever, headache, vomiting, or a rash. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in less than 1% of people, encephalitis or meningitis occurs, with associated neck stiffness, confusion, or seizures.