The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #68249

Maria J. Chudoba, MD, MPH¹, Stephanie Smith, MD, MPH¹, Steve Seweryn, MPH², Thomas Varchmin, MS, LEHP³, Alena Khromava, MD, MPH⁴, and Margaret McCusker, MD, MS⁵. (1) Communicable Diseases, Cook County Department of Public Health, 1010 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301, (708) 492-2174, mariachudoba@hotmail.com, (2) Epidemiology, Cook County Department of Public Health, 1010 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301, (3) Environmental Health, Cook County Department of Public Health, 1010 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301, (4) National Immunization Program, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30333, (5) Division of Applied Public Health Training, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta, GA 30333

Introduction: Human West Nile Virus (WNV) Infection was epidemic in suburban Cook County, Illinois in 2002. Nearly 300 cases of disease and 17 deaths were reported to the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH). CCDPH conducted the investigation of this outbreak. Clinical and demographic data were collected on each case. CCDPH and CDC EIS officers also attempted to survey cases about behaviors in the three weeks prior to becoming ill that might have increased their risk of exposure to mosquito bites. Methods: A standardized questionnaire was developed to collect information on WNV cases. Questions covered outdoor exposure, mosquito bite history, mosquito repellant use and the outdoor environment around the case’s residence. All living cases received between 07/01/02 and 09/28/02 were telephoned and asked to complete the interview. Results: A total of 125 interviews were completed. Eighty-four (67%)respondents identified spending time outdoors in their backyard/porch. Sixty-eight (65%) did not recall receiving a mosquito bite. Ninety-seven (78%) reported they did not use a mosquito repellant containing DEET. Only 33 (26%) had a birdbath and 26 (21%) had a culvert/catchbasin near their home. Conclusions: Most cases reported being outdoors prior to onset of WNV without using a mosquito repellant. Cases identified spending time outdoors near their home most often. Prevention messages for WNV should include emphasis on the need to use mosquito repellants when venturing outdoors, including activity in the immediate vicinity of one’s own residence.

Learning Objectives:

• 1.To assess possible risk factors associated with people diagnosed of West Nile Virus infection
• 2.To recognize importance of behavior related to case intervention
• 3.To identify importance of public information messages

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.