An elderly patient in Harris County is reportedly experiencing West Nile Virus symptoms.

West Nile virus symptoms detected in an elderly patient

Remi Garcia reportedly experienced West Nile symptoms a few weeks ago. He had a fever and tremors. His daughter thought that he had stroke due to the symptoms but later, she took her 90-year-old father to hospital for tests. Doctor confirmed that Garcia had contracted West Nile virus, Newstaggr reported.

The first human case of West Nile virus confirmed in Harris County

Remi Garcia has been on ventilator since then. Doctors at Methodist Hospital put their best efforts in reducing swelling in Garcia's brain. According to the county's Public Health Department, this is the first WNV case affecting human in the area. Previously, two Texas counties have reported West Nile cases in humans, ABC13 reported.

Hot and dry summers: ideal place for mosquito-borne West Nile Virus

Experts remind the public to stay alert against mosquito bites during dusk and dawn. Previously, Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services ordered the residents, older than six months, should use repellent. Harris County has also increased the efforts to prevent West Nile Virus using sprays and capturing birds and mosquitoes for virus testings.

West Nile Virus symptoms

West Nile Virus mild symptoms include joint pain, headache, and diarrhea. Sometimes WNV rash also appears on patient's skin. Severe symptoms include meningitis, stupor, coma, tremors, convulsions and paralysis. Experts said that adults over 50 are prone to the disease.

Reduce risk of being infected with West Nile Virus

CDC has made it clear that WNV is commonly transmitted by mosquitoes and there are ways to reduce the risk of getting the virus. Using repellent and wearing light-colored long shirts are pemarts of the recommendations. Experts also advise to empty water in buckets or pool as they are ideal place for mosquito breeding. According to CDC, there are no medications that can prevent the WNV infection. However, it is reported that only one percent of infected people develop serious illness.

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