The first new case of West Nile virus in Tulare County was reported in July, and two more cases have since been added.
In California, there are 11 counties reporting West Nile virus cases. Across the state, there are 18 human cases of the virus.
There have been two cases in neighboring Kings County, with one resulting in the state’s first fatality.
“We are deeply saddened to report the death of a Kings County resident from West Nile virus,” said Heather Campos, Kings County Public Health Department assistant director. “This unfortunate loss is a stark reminder of the potential severity of WNV.”
Last year, a Tulare County resident contracted West Nile virus, which resulted his death.
The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. There is no vaccine or medication to treat the virus, so the focus is on prevention.
“We are aware because of ongoing surveillance that there are mosquitoes in all areas of the county that are carrying the virus,” said Carrie Monteiro, Tulare County Health & Human Services Agency public information officer. “Because we have increased activity during this time of year, we encourage residents to use all the safeguards to reduce their risk from contracting West Nile virus through mosquito bites.”
She suggested using insect repellent, such as DEET.
“If you have to be outside, dress in long sleeves and pants,” Monteiro said. “Mosquitos are extremely active during the dawn and dusk hours, so when they’re most active, have those long sleeves, pants, and covering.
“In and around the home, any standing water are breeding grounds, so drain standing water, and repair or replace any doors or windows or screens that have tears or holes because mosquitos can get in the home through those means,” she added.
Most people infected with West Nile will have no symptoms, but about one in five will develop a fever with other symptoms two to 14 days after being infected. Severe cases of West Nile virus can harm the central nervous system, resulting in meningitis and/or encephalitis, which can result in death or long-term disability.
Residents who discover a dead bird should not handle the animal, but instead call the West Nile Virus Call Center at 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or submit a report online at https://westnile.ca.gov/report.
If you see areas of standing water that may be breeding areas for mosquitoes, contact your local mosquito abatement district below:
This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Three West Nile virus cases reported in Tulare County
Reporting by Steve Pastis, Visalia Times-Delta / Visalia Times-Delta
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Steve Pastis, Visalia Times-Delta | USA TODAY Network
