Second L.A. death from West Nile virus
L.A. (BDCi) – It was announced Tuesday (2) that a second person has died of West Nile virus in Los Angeles County.
Both victims were adults in their 80s living in the southeastern part of L.A. County; their names have not been released.
Those over the age of 50 and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk for developing symptoms.
Mosquitoes catch the virus when they feed on infected birds. Horses are also susceptible to West Nile but there is a vaccine for them.
No such thing exists for humans.
Symptoms include headache, illness, fever, nausea, skin rashes and body aches. These can appear within three to 12 days after infection. More severe symptoms include meningitis and inflammation of the brain.
Recovery can take months to years and some people never fully recover.
Health officials urge residents to report dead birds by calling (877) 968-2473 or visiting http://publichealth.lacounty.gov.
Stagnant pools should be reported to (626) 430-5200.
For more information about West Nile, visit http://westnile.ca.gov.
By: Diego Díaz Source: KTLA Photo: Reuters 4 October 2012
9:35 a.m. P.D.T.