Arkansas has six confirmed cases of West Nile virus in humans and 47 counties affected by the virus based on testing of dead crows and blue jays. For a complete list and to view current updates, visit the ADH website at www.healthyarkansas.com/westnilevirus.htm. For specific bird information, visit the Arkansas Livestock and Poultry website at www.arlpc.org.

Media members are reminded that they may contact either Ann Wright or Bob Alvey as needed at 501-661-2474 and 501-661-2743, respectively. They may be reached after hours through the ADH Communications Center at 501-661-2136.

West Nile virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes biting humans, horses and other animals after feeding on diseased birds, which are the host animals.  Not all mosquitoes have a virus in them, but certainly, the more mosquito bites one gets, the greater the risk of catching a disease.  Most people that get bitten by an infected mosquito do not get sick or only show very mild or no symptoms.  Symptoms of human West Nile virus infections typically begin within 14 days following the insect bite and consist of fever, muscle and joint aches, listlessness, and in most severe cases, headaches leading to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

When it is necessary to be outdoors, wear protective clothing and use mosquito repellent containing up to 35 percent DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). 

Use the following precautions when using repellents containing DEET:

• Store out of the reach of children and read all instructions on the label before applying.
  

• Do not allow young children to apply DEET themselves.  
  

• Do not apply DEET directly to children.  Apply to your own hands and then put it on the child, avoiding the child’s face and hands.  
  

• Avoid prolonged and excessive use of DEET.  
  

• Do not apply repellents in enclosed areas.  
  

• Do not apply directly to your face.  
  

• Wash all treated skin and clothing after returning indoors.

If you believe you or your child is having an adverse reaction to a repellent containing DEET, wash the treated area immediately and call your health care provider.

The health department is continuing to monitor the state for mosquito-borne diseases and has established a West Nile virus hotline to respond to public inquiries.  If you have a question, please call 501.280.4817 from 8:00 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  For after hours and weekends, please call 1.800.554.5738.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention West Nile virus hotline is 1.888.246.2675; 1.888.246.2857 (Spanish).

For more information on West Nile virus, visit our website at www.healthyarkansas.com/services/westnilevirus_main.htm.

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