FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. -- An elderly Cumberland County resident has died after contracting West Nile virus.
- A person in Cumberland County died of West Nile virus.
- The identity is not being released.
- First WNV death in NC in 2018.
This is the first West Nile death in North Carolina in 2018.
The Department of Health says the public should not be alarmed but should be vigilant in protecting themselves from mosquito bites.
There are usually no symptoms in most people who become infected with West Nile, but in rare cases symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Joint pains
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rashes
While the mortality rate from West Nile is relatively low, babies, toddlers and the elderly are at elevated risk.
Prevention methods for West Nile primarily focus on the reduction of mosquito breeding and include:
- Tipping the water out of objects such as flower pots and children's toys after it rains
- Storing old tires inside, or under a shelter/tarp to prevent the build up of water
- Changing water in bird baths and pet bowls at least twice a week
- Keeping gutters clear and clean so that water doesn't build up
- Securing rain barrels with lids
- Use insect repellent
The identity of the deceased has not been released by DHHS.
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