A Parkside volunteer firefighter and borough councilwoman is warning others to take mosquito bites seriously after a severe battle with West Nile virus left her hospitalized and bedridden.
Sarah Haynes said she was bitten while gardening on August 14 and soon developed a fever and intense headaches that progressed into brain swelling. She spent a week in the hospital and was unable to respond to fire calls for three weeks.
“I never thought in my life that the West Nile virus would be this serious,” Haynes said. “I thought it was a virus in Africa, not America.”
Now back at the Parkside Fire Company, Haynes said she feels fortunate to have recovered. “I got lucky because I’m strong,” she added, noting her concern for her older husband and family if they had contracted it.
According to the CDC, more than 770 cases have been reported nationwide this season, with nearly 500 involving severe complications such as encephalitis or meningitis.
Delaware County health officials stressed that while human cases are rare, the risks are greatest for those over 60 or with weakened immune systems.
Environmental health supervisor Zachary Babel reminded residents of the “three Ds”:
-
Drain standing water where mosquitoes breed.
-
Dress in long sleeves and pants outdoors.
-
Defend with EPA-approved insect repellent.
Haynes was medically cleared to return to work on September 2 and is now back on duty, taking extra precautions.
“Take West Nile virus seriously,” she said. “It could really affect your whole life.”
Haynes is also finding comfort in her 10-week-old teacup Yorkie puppy, Pickles, who she brings to the firehouse. Parkside Fire Chief Dave Lamey said her return has lifted the department’s spirits:
“When she went down, it kind of put a hurt on us… They were happy to see Sarah back in action.”
