On Sunday the first victim, Scott Orrock, 80, a resident of Springville, died at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center from severe complications caused by the mosquito-borne illness.
The second victim also was older than 65 and passed away at a local hospital last weekend, Utah County Health Department officials confirmed on Wednesday. The illness led to a fatal progressive inflammation of the person's brain.
"The majority of West Nile virus cases in Utah County last year were from communities in the south end of the valley," said Joseph Miner, director for the Utah County Health Department. "However, the 18 cases this year have come from all over the county. This individual resided in the middle of the county."
Although the risk of death from West Nile virus is higher in senior citizens, Miner said he has seen serious encephalitis and meningitis symptoms in all age groups.
The county hopes to quell the infections with airplane spraying and ground fogging in neighborhoods. In Utah, cases of West Nile usually peak at the end of August and in September.
Also on Wednesday, the state reported 21 human cases of West Nile virus, according to the Utah Department of Health. Last week, seven cases had been confirmed, a total that rose to 18 on Tuesday.
One person died from the illness last season.
Most people infected by a mosquito will not experience symptoms or will get a flu and aches and pains. In severe cases, people may contract encephalitis and meningitis, which can lead to death.
chamilton@sltrib.com
Officials with Salt Lake County Aging Services say because people over 50 are more likely to develop serious symptoms with West Nile virus, they should take special care to avoid mosquito bites.
To do this, the agency suggests following the 4 Ds:
- DEET - use these products to protect against bites.
- Dusk to dawn - that's when mosquitoes are most active.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants in the evening and mornings.
- Drain standing water from outside the home because it can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitos.Protecting yourself
Officials with Salt Lake County Aging Services say because people over 50 are more likely to develop serious symptoms with West Nile virus, they should take special care to avoid mosquito bites.
To do this, the agency suggests following the 4 Ds:
l DEET - use these products to protect against bites.
l Dusk to dawn - that's when mosquitoes are most active.
l Dress in long sleeves and pants in the evening and mornings.
l Drain standing water from outside the home because it can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitos.
