Community Corner
West Nile Virus Sickens Lehigh County Man
Pennsylvania has confirmed 7 human cases of West Nile Virus and one of the latest is a Lehigh County man.
A Lehigh County man is among seven Pennsylvanians sickened by West Nile Virus - an infection rate on track to exceed the most West Nile cases ever in the state by the end of the year.
"August and September are usually the heaviest months [for infections]," said Amanda Witman of Pa. Department of Environmental Protection. "We're on track to exceed our highest year ever."
Officials won't say what town or township the man is from. He is middle aged and was hospitalized with meningitis as a result of West Nile, according to the Pa. Department of Health. No further information on the man or his condition is available from state officials.
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Out of 291 mosquitoes tested in Lehigh County, 71 were carrying West Nile so far this year. Four birds have tested positive, including two found in Upper Macungie Township.
took place in Upper Macungie and Lower Macungie and South Whitehall Townships this week.
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Last year, Pennsylvania had seven human cases of West Nile, down from 28 cases in 2010.
where mosquitoes can breed on their property.
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