OKLAHOMA CITY —
The Oklahoma City-County Health Department has confirmed two cases of the West Nile Virus, marking the first reported infections in the area this season.
The department issued a news release on Wednesday, saying the virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the U.S.
“Most people who get WNV do not develop symptoms, though one in five people may develop a fever as well as body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash,” the Oklahoma City-County Health Department said in the release. “More severe illnesses affect one out of 150 people and can cause encephalitis or meningitis.”
The health department encouraged all residents to use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants when outside, keep windows closed when possible and repair screens and standing water.
