Local Man With West Nile Virus Warns Others Not To Ignore Flu-Like Symptoms
MISSION VIEJO (CBSLA.com) — A local man who contracted and survived the dangerous West Nile virus says that ignoring the virus's flu-like symptoms almost cost him his life.
Doctors suggest West Nile virus survivor Daniel Doherty, who Orange County health officials say is one of 127 to be diagnosed with the virus in 2014, is lucky to be alive with little neurological damage and strained vocal cords.
He tells CBS2's Stacey Butler that he hopes his experience will help others prevent the virus' progression.
"You are sharing my story with others, and maybe by them seeing this and hearing me, they may be taking preventative cautions so they don't have to feel what the 127 others and I are experiencing (and) currently going through," Doherty said.
Additionally, he has words of advice for anyone experiencing the flu-like symptoms associated with West Nile virus.
"Don't be stubborn like I was," Doherty warned. "It almost cost me my life."
After initially experiencing the symptoms, Doherty progressed to the point of being unable to answer basic questions, including his name or where he was.
Doherty, who was treated at Mission Hospital, spent nine days in a medically induced coma, after having been diagnosed with a minor stroke and brain swelling.
Then, in what doctors called a miracle, Doherty recovered without brain damage.
"God worked through the medical staff," Doherty said. "They saved me."
Health officials warn residents to use bug spray, and when possible, wear long-sleeved shirts.
"We will continue to have infections for probably at least another month, if not longer, in Orange County," Dr. Michele Cheung said. "So it's really important to continue utilizing precautions."
