WHY: West Nile Virus is an “emerging” epidemic that could spread throughout the United States, according to officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Seven people have died from the virus in Louisiana, and humans have contracted the virus in six states and the District of Columbia. The virus has been found in animals in 36 states.
West Nile Virus can lead to encephalitis or meningitis, potentially fatal swelling of the brain or the membranes that cover it. Solid factual information is necessary as we deal with this dangerous disease.
WHAT: Area-wide educational videoconference “A Bird’s Eye View of West Nile Virus in Texas.” For county public health officials, county judges and commissioners, and County Extension Agents. General public can also attend.
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 22, 9-10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Texas Cooperative Extension conference room, 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr,, Ste. 212, San Antonio; Texas Cooperative Extension office, 132 S. Water Lane, New Braunfels; Texas A&M Agricultural Research and Extension Center, 1619 Garner Field Rd., Uvalde; Texas A&M Extension Information Technology Conference Room, College Station.
WHO: Experts from Texas Cooperative Extension, Texas A&M University and Texas Department of Health will discuss mosquito biology and control, the impact of West Nile Virus on horses and other equines, and human impacts and current distribution of West Nile Virus in Texas. The videoconference will include an interactive question and answer segment. An 8-minute West Nile Virus video from Texas Cooperative Extension will be shown at each location.
-30-