Rhode Island’s Department of Health has received confirmation of the first case of West Nile virus in the state this year. The mosquito-borne illness is rare but can be dangerous for some patients.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the diagnosis. State health officials say the patient was a 49-year old Pawtucket man, who was admitted to the hospital in Mid-August. He was treated and released more than a week later. He’s now recovering, the agency says.
The West Nile case is a reminder that while another mosquito-borne virus – Zika – has dominated the news, Rhode Islanders are still more vulnerable to other viruses more typical in the Ocean State. Those include West Nile and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Mosquitoes are still prevalent this time of year, so it’s best to wear protection when outside.
