CDC Announces West Nile Virus On the Decline

Although the number of West Nile Virus cases has decreased dramatically, people are urged to continue with the same diligence they have in the past. The Center for Disease Control reports the number of cases in 2009 was just 720. At the height of the West Nile Virus scare, there were nearly 3,000 cases and close to 300 deaths. Mosquitoes are the culprits in this deadly disease. Mosquitoes pass the virus to humans after biting an infected bird and then biting a human.

The CDC believes the decline can be attributed to a number of different things, but mostly to the proactive approach against the spread of the virus. Homeowners are doing their part in the fight against this virus by being more aware of potential hotbeds for mosquito growth. This means dumping or removing any standing water sources that attract and breed mosquito populations. Local governments have also been diligent about spraying pesticides to prevent mosquito reproduction. All humans are advised to wear bug repellant when outdoors, no matter what. These mosquito prevention methods appear to be working according to the latest statistics.

The CDC also believes that birds that may normally carry the virus have developed an immunity to it, thus slowly eradicating the disease from the North American continent. The disease was first found along the West Nile river bank in Uganda. It did not make its way to the United States until the late 1990s. Experts remind those that had a wet spring to remain diligent in their mosquito control efforts.