State’s DEP testing for West Nile virus proves positive

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, mosquito samplings in the following municipalities in Montgomery County tested positive for West Nile virus: Collegeville; Norristown; Upper Merion; Upper Providence; Whitpain; Worcester.

West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes that breed in areas with standing and stagnant water. These areas include urban catch basins, clogged gutters, discarded tires, poorly maintained swimming pools, flower pots, roof gutters, and other containers that hold water.

The Department of Environmental Protection surveys communities affected by West Nile virus each year, and monitors cases of the virus in humans, mosquitoes, birds, and horses.

In 2017, there were 20 human cases of West Nile virus reported in Pennsylvania. So far in 2018, no positive human cases have been reported. Symptoms of West Nile virus are often flu-like and can include a fever, headache, body aches, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and typically only last a few days.

However, West Nile virus can cause a serious neurological infection, including encephalitis and meningitis. Symptoms of these infections include a severe headache, high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, paralysis, possible confusion and disorientation, tremors, and even a coma.

For Digital First Media