THE VALLEY ANGUILLA:— Health authorities have confirmed the island’s first locally acquired case of West Nile virus in a 25-year-old resident who began exhibiting symptoms on March 7. The Ministry of Health conducted tests that confirmed the diagnosis on March 10, noting that the patient had no recent travel history, indicating local transmission.
The individual is hospitalized and stable. West Nile virus, primarily spread by Culex mosquitoes, typically circulates between mosquitoes and birds. While most cases are asymptomatic or mild, symptoms can include fever, headache, and nausea. Severe neurological complications can occur in rare cases.
Health officials advise those experiencing severe symptoms, such as high fever and confusion, to seek immediate medical attention. They also urge residents to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and take protective measures against bites.