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West Nile on the Web • CDC-West Nile Info

Normally, being bitten by a mosquito in the Atlanta area does not obtain front page status in the local newspaper. Mosquitoes are as common here as humidity and sweet tea. Most Atlantans probably get bit by mosquitoes dozens of times in an average year. The warm temperatures, combined with rain, humidity, and lush vegetation make Atlanta an excellent breeding ground for the pests. But for the past 2 years, mosquitoes have become an important topic of discussion in the Atlanta area. Why? The West Nile Virus.

The West Nile Virus really made its way into the national spotlight last year, when there were several reported deaths linked to the virus carried by mosquitoes. This year, it is spreading out West. Louisiana has been hit hardest so far this year, and now, late into the summer, the Atlanta area is seeing its share of cases. Most alarming of these new cases involve transplant patients, marking the first time human to human transmission of West Nile has occurred. Detection of the disease in a particular area usually begins with the discovery of a dead bird that subsequently tests positive for the virus. Over 80 birds have tested positive for the virus in Georgia so far this year. Often, a human becomes infected that was in the general area of the dead bird.

While there have been deaths reported from the West Nile Virus, the general population is not at risk for severe complications. Most victims have been older or had pre-existing conditions that put their immune system at risk. While most people would exhibit no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms, at its worst, the West Nile Virus can lead to encephalitis, a potentially deadly swelling of the brain.

Most Atlantans are taking the outbreak of the West Nile Virus in stride. There are many simple steps that one can take to minimize their contact with mosquitoes, including applying bug repellant for extended outdoor exposure, and eliminating pools of standing water, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

So don't panic if you get bitten by a mosquito in Atlanta. It will probably just give you an itchy red welt for a couple of days. Annoying, but for the most part, not deadly.