Kern County reports 6th West Nile case
and last updated 2020-12-18 12:09:56-05
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) â Kern County Public Health has confirmed another case of West Nile virus, bringing the county's total to six.
According to the county's website, "West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness transmitted by mosquitoes to people. The virus survives in nature in birds and is passed when a mosquito feeds on an infected bird. The infected mosquito can then pass the virus when it bites humans and other mammals, such as horses."
Most people who become infected do not become ill. However, those that due suffer from fever, headache, rash, muscle weakness, nausea and vomiting. In sever cases, victims can suffer limb paralysis, tremors, and an altered mental state. In rare cases, the virus can be fatal.