Friday, August 24,
2001
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West Nile virus hits Fulton By JOHN
THOMPSON The death last weekend of a Fulton County resident from the West Nile virus has increased the awareness of the virus that was discovered in the state earlier this summer. Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness officials said a 71-year-old woman died from the disease near Centennial Park last Saturday. Health and Wellness spokesman Latricia Hughes said two more birds carrying the deadly virus were discovered Tuesday near downtown Atlanta, but said South Fulton has been safe so far. The virus is spread by mosquitos and causes severe health problems for a small portion of the population. "Only a very small proportion of people infected with West Nile virus experience severe illness," said Dr. Adewale Troutman, director of the Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness. If South Fulton residents discover dead birds in their yards, they should immediately contact the county at 404-730-1335. In the meantime, Fulton officials are trying to educate residents about the virus and urging those who have potential risk to use precautions when going outside. West Nile virus, previously found only in other parts of the world such as Africa, Eastern Europe and western Asia, appeared in the United States in 1999, and in Georgia in 2001. It is carried by certain mosquitos that infect birds, animals and people. Health officials said people over the age of 50 have the highest risk of developing severe illness because their bodies have a harder time fighting off disease. People with compromised or weakened immune systems also are at a higher risk. However, anyone can get the virus. Most people have no symptoms or experience mild flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, the virus may cause encephalitis (swelling of the brain). Officials said you should see a doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, severe headaches, stiff neck, or if your eyes become sensitive to light. Patients with mild symptoms should recover completely, and do not require any specific medication or laboratory testing. Officials said residents should wear protective clothing such as long pants, long sleeved-shirts and socks. Use insect repellent containing 10 percent or less DEET (N, N-diethyl-methyl-meta-toluamide) for children older than 5 years of age and no more than 30 percent DEET for adults. Outside, residents should make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace all screens in your home that have tears or holes. Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor spas, saunas and hot tubs. If not in use, keep them empty and covered. Drain improperly installed and sagging pool covers and change the water in birdbaths at least once every four days. For information on the virus, phone the Fulton County hot line at 404-730-1275.
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