First Human W. Nile Case in N. Dakota

July 26, 2003

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A western North Dakota man is the state's first diagnosed case of West Nile virus this year, the Health Department said Friday.

The man, described as between 51 and 64 years old, was in the hospital in fair condition, said Larry Shireley, an agency disease specialist.

The West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquito bites. It can cause head and body aches, fever and skin rashes. In rare instances, it can cause brain swelling and death.

Seventeen North Dakotans were diagnosed with the virus in 2002, and it is believed to have contributed to two deaths. Shireley said 57 North Dakotans have been tested for the illness thus far in 2003.

‘‘This case is a reminder to all North Dakotans of the importance of taking precautions to protect themselves from mosquitoes,'' Shireley said.

The newly diagnosed victim was not identified, and his home town was not given. The Health Department said he lived within a 10-county area in western North Dakota, including Burleigh, Emmons, Grant, Kidder, McLean, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sheridan and Sioux counties.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday listed 12 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus, including one each in South Dakota and Minnesota. The North Dakota case was not included in the tally late Friday.

West Nile also affects birds and horses. The Health Department said 46 birds and five horses have tested positive for the illness in North Dakota this year.

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