Jefferson County Health Department

Although less than one percent of people contract West Nile Virus each year, it can cause serious health affects in some people. While any one can become ill from the West Nile Virus, usually the less severe form of the disease with mild fever and muscle aches some get the more severe form of the disease with swelling of the brain (encephalitis), paralysis, respiratory failure, coma and even death. Most persons that become sick from the West Nile Virus who develop serious illness from the disease are already sick or are in their late 50's or older. The following patient testimonials were provided to Jefferson County Health Department by the Contra Costa Mosquito Abatement District. Our office obtained permission to use these videos for educational purposes.

Byron Leiblein Age 73 Sacramento Resident Contracted WNV in July 2005 Byron suffered the severe form of the virus that left him hospitalized for 15 months. Byron endured multiple bouts of pneumonia, paralysis and was unable to speak for the majority of his hospital stay. He regained his speech just days before the interview was conducted. Byron returned home to his family in October, 2006. The former outdoor enthusiast has only regained partial use of his arms and legs. Byron experiences dramatic mood swings and his daughter admits that, “West Nile is a lot tougher than we thought.” Byron Lieblien Interview 1 Byron Lieblien Interview 2 Byron Lieblien Interview 3		Max del Heirro Age 51 Santa Clara County Resident Contracted WNV in August 2004 13 months before recovery became apparent. Nearly three years later, Max still experiences moments of brief confusion and ‘drop foot’ (inability to raise their foot at the ankle) he associates with WNV. Max del Heirro Interview 1 Max del Heirro Interview 2 Max del Heirro Interview 3 Max del Heirro Interview 4
Lorrie Swortfiguer Age 42 Modesto Resident. Contracted WNV August 2005 Works as a respiratory therapist at the same hospital Byron was being treated. Under doctor's care for fever, lack of appetite, severe headache and muscle aches and inability to get out of bed for one month. One year later, Lorrie says she's about 85% back to normal. She still has muscle aches at times and gets tired more frequently. Lorrie Swortfiguer Interview 1 Lorrie Swortfiguer Interview 2 Lorrie Swortfiguer Interview 3 Lorrie Swortfiguer Interview 4

West Nile Patient Testimonials