Netanya woman in serious condition after falling victim to West Nile Virus

By JUDY SIEGEL-ITZKOVICH
The first West Nile Virus victim of the year, a 78-year-old Netanya woman, was in serious but stable condition at Tel Aviv's Sourasky Medical Center on Tuesday. The disease, spread by mosquitoes usually infected by wild birds, has hit Israel and many parts of the world every summer but it has not killed anyone here since a major outbreak about five years ago. Those at risk from the virus are people with weak immune systems, especially the elderly and those with chronic disease. In others, it passes harmlessly after feeling flu-like symptoms. Covering up with long-sleeved light clothing, installing window screens, using mosquito repellents and drying up standing water are the best ways to keep it at bay.