Santa Clara County has reported its first human case of the West Nile virus this season, according to the Santa Clara Public Health Department. The individual who contracted the illness is a Santa Clara County resident but acquired the virus elsewhere in California.
The infected individual is an adult who was hospitalized but is now recovering at home, as stated by the Public Health Department. Due to considerations of medical privacy, the department has declined to release further details about the individual’s illness.
The West Nile virus, as described by the Santa Clara Public Health Department, is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe flu-like issues such as fever, headache, body aches, and in severe cases, neurological symptoms or even death. However, the majority of people who contract the virus experience only mild symptoms and recover quickly. Most people face a low risk of serious illness from the West Nile virus.
Individuals above the age of 60 or those with certain medical conditions are at a higher risk of falling ill or developing health complications due to the virus.
In order to reduce the risk of contracting the West Nile virus, the Santa Clara Public Health Department recommends draining standing water, such as that found in flower pots. This case highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures against mosquito-borne diseases.