West Nile Blood Test Finds First Infected Donor

Infected Donation Found In Texas

Federal officials say new testing already has kept blood infected with West Nile virus from reaching patients.

The testing of the nation's blood supply for West Nile virus began just days ago, using new techniques. The Food and Drug Administration said the first infected donation was found in Texas. The agency said the donor had been allowed to give blood because she showed no symptoms.

West Nile virus is spread mostly by infected mosquitoes. But about 13 of last year's record 4,000 U.S. cases, spanning 44 states, are believed to have been caused by blood transfusions.

Meanwhile, Nebraska health officials announced Thursday that the state has its first positive human case this year of West Nile virus.

The state epidemiologist reported that a 36-year-old woman sought medical attention for a fever and headache. A blood test conducted by the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory confirmed the diagnosis of West Nile virus. The patient has recovered and returned to work, Dr. Tom Safranek said.

"This case was an example of a mild West Nile virus infection," Safranek said. "Most people who are infected by a mosquito have no symptoms or only mild flu-like symptoms, and the risk for serious illness is low."

Fewer than one out of every 100 people who are bitten by an infected mosquito and become infected themselves will become severely ill, he said.

So far this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not confirmed any human cases of West Nile virus. But as of Wednesday, 28 states had reported the virus in birds, horses, or mosquitoes.

Previous Stories:

• June 19, 2003: Could Bug Repellents Be Harmful To Children?
• June 18, 2003: Blood Testing Begins For West Nile Virus
• April 25, 2003: Experts Look At West Nile Illnesses
• March 31, 2003: Unusual Nerve Symptoms May Signal West Nile

Copyright 2003 by KIROTV.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.