Health

West Nile Virus

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    Last Friday the West Nile Virus took the life of 70 year old Central resident Riley Joseph Gremillion.  The family is certainly in the thoughts and prayers of many here in Central.  Mr. Gremillion's son, Robert Gremillion, also urged everyone to "Please take this seriously…I do not want anyone else to go through what we have endured…"
    In light of the seriousness of the West Nile Virus, highlighted by this impact on the Central community, Central Speaks wants to help keep the community aware of the risks and symptoms of the disease.  Keeping your property free of standing water where mosquitos breed is the first step in prevention.  In addition, East Baton Rouge Parish Mosquito Abatement will come out and inspect and spray your property at no charge. This service is paid for by your property taxes.  Their number is 356-3297.  Finally, understanding the disease is critical in knowing when to seek medical treatment.  The following information comes from the National Center for Biotechnology information.
    Researchers believe West Nile virus is spread when a mosquito bites an infected bird and then bites a person.  Mosquitos carry the highest amounts of virus in the early fall, which is why the rate of the disease increases in late August to early September. The risk of disease decreases as the weather becomes colder and mosquitos die off.  Although many people are bitten by mosquitos that carry West Nile virus, most do not know they've been exposed. Few people develop severe disease or even notice any symptoms at all.  Risk factors for developing a more severe form of West Nile virus include conditions that weaken the immune system, older or very young age, and pregnancy.
    The mild disease, called West Nile fever, may cause some or all of the following symptoms: Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Fever, Headache, Lack of appetite, Muscle aches Nausea, Rash, Sore throat, Swollen lymph nodes and Vomiting.  These symptoms usually last for 3 – 6 days. More severe forms of disease, which can be life threatening, may be called West Nile encephalitis or West Nile meningitis, depending on what part of the body is affected. The following symptoms can occur, and need prompt attention: Confusion or change in ability to think clearly, Loss of consciousness or coma, Muscle weakness, Stiff neck Weakness of one arm or leg.
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