West Nile virus cases increase to 21 in state

By The Associated Press

MEMPHIS (AP) — Health officials say two newly reported cases of West Nile virus in Shelby County increase the state’s total this year to 21.

The Shelby County Health Department reported Friday that two men, ages 37 and 57, have contracted the illness, raising the county’s total to 12 this year.

A mild case of West Nile can cause flu-like symptoms and a skin rash. But a severe case can cause convulsions, vision loss, numbness, paralysis, coma and even death. The symptoms can last for weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

People over the age of 50 are more likely to develop serious symptoms.