The El Dorado County Environmental Management and Public Health departments received confirmation today that one bird found in the Shingle Springs area of El Dorado County has tested positive for West Nile virus, the first for 2008. The bird, a hummingbird, was found on May 19, 2008. So far this year, West Nile virus activity has been reported in 18 California counties, including neighboring Sacramento County; however, there have been no human or horse cases of West Nile virus reported in California in 2008.
"Confirmation of our first bird means that the virus is starting to circulate between birds and mosquitoes and there is a heightened risk of infection in humans," said Virginia Huber, Tahoe Division Manager of the Environmental Management Department. "We are urging residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves."
West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes pick up the virus when they feed on infected birds. The illness is not spread from person-to-person. Most people infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms. However, some people may experience flu-like symptoms which may last from several days to several weeks. The most serious cases of West Nile virus infection can lead to encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, which can be fatal. Long-term neurological problems have also been seen in some survivors of severe West Nile virus infection.
Mosquito surveillance programs are in place throughout the County. These programs include trapping and testing mosquitoes, as well as reporting and testing dead birds and tree squirrels. In addition, the Public Health Department has instituted human surveillance activities, and physicians are encouraged to routinely test human cases of viral meningitis and encephalitis for West Nile virus.
To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, Huber recommends the following:
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sources by draining all standing water around property. Keep water in swimming pools, ponds and water troughs circulating or treated with "Mosquito Dunks" or mosquito fish.
- Apply insect repellent that contains DEET or another approved substance (e.g. picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535) on exposed skin when outdoors (always read and follow label instructions).
- Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. While outside among mosquitoes, dress in long sleeves and long pants.
- Make sure doors and windows have tight fitting screens, kept in good condition.
- Report dead birds and squirrels to the State West Nile Virus hotline at (877) WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473) or online at www.westnile.ca.gov. Wear gloves and place dead birds or squirrels in a double plastic bag if disposing of them yourself.
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As of June 4, 2008: West Nile virus (WNV) season is here. So far this year, there has been one WNV positive bird reported in El Dorado County . Health officials in El Dorado County continue to monitor WNV activity, and enhanced surveillance and control activities resumed earlier this year. For the latest West Nile Virus activity in California, click here. |
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