Iowa DPH confirms cases of West Nile, Heartland viruses
The Iowa Department of Public Health on Wednesday confirmed the state’s first case of West Nile Virus in 2020.According to a news release, the patient is an adult between 18 and 40 years old from Polk County.Additionally, the Iowa DPH confirmed its first ever case of Heartland virus.According to the department, Heartland virus is thought to be transmitted by the lone star tick. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and diarrhea.The individual with Heartland virus is an older adult between the ages of 61 and 80 from Appanoose County.IDPH Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Ann Garvey said in a statement, “These reports are an important reminder that as Iowans take advantage of outdoor activities, they should take precautions to prevent tick and mosquito bites.”The Iowa DPH said the best ways to prevent tick and mosquito-borne illness are to:Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when possible.Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks when outdoors.Eliminate areas of standing water, where mosquitos like to lay eggs.Stay on trails and avoid high grass when walking or hiking.Check yourself, family and pets for ticks after time spent in tick-infested areas.
DES MOINES, Iowa —
The Iowa Department of Public Health on Wednesday confirmed the state’s first case of West Nile Virus in 2020.
According to a news release, the patient is an adult between 18 and 40 years old from Polk County.
Additionally, the Iowa DPH confirmed its first ever case of Heartland virus.
According to the department, Heartland virus is thought to be transmitted by the lone star tick. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and diarrhea.
The individual with Heartland virus is an older adult between the ages of 61 and 80 from Appanoose County.
IDPH Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Ann Garvey said in a statement, “These reports are an important reminder that as Iowans take advantage of outdoor activities, they should take precautions to prevent tick and mosquito bites.”
The Iowa DPH said the best ways to prevent tick and mosquito-borne illness are to:
- Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when possible.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks when outdoors.
- Eliminate areas of standing water, where mosquitos like to lay eggs.
- Stay on trails and avoid high grass when walking or hiking.
- Check yourself, family and pets for ticks after time spent in tick-infested areas.
