Subject: FW: Health Advisory 8-2006 West Nile Virus Information - 2006 Season [id: 61649]

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is releasing the following information in preparation for the beginning of the 2006 West Nile Virus season. In 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 2949 human cases and 116 deaths (as of February 14, 2006) of West Nile Virus in the United States. In Pennsylvania, 25 human cases of West Nile Virus and two deaths (contributing factors) were reported to the Department of Health. To date, the virus has been detected throughout the United States except in Alaska and Hawaii. In Pennsylvania, 33 of the 67 counties had West Nile Virus detected either in birds, mosquito pools, sentinel chickens, horses or humans. Some counties had positives in all surveillance areas. Because these findings indicate ongoing and widening enzootic transmission, we need to be vigilant and prepared for the re-emergence of West Nile Virus as the adult mosquito season progresses. As we enter a new mosquito season, Pennsylvania Department of Health wants to keep you apprised of our surveillance activities and how you can help the Commonwealth deal with this emerging disease threat. Please log into the Pennsylvania Health Alert Network website and click on the title of this advisory under the News section for further information.