The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District has added a new case of West Nile Virus to it’s website.
In this case, a dead Yellow-Billed Magpie was collected on August 30th, and tested positive for West Nile Virus. The bird was found on Buckboard Drive, near Dry Creek Road and G Street.
Two other birds have been collected in the area recently; An American Crow on August 4th, and another Yellow-Billed Magpie on July 3rd. They were both collected in Elverta, between Electric Ave and Elmont Ave.
On August 13th, there were also 48 mosquitoes collected from a trap at the Hanson Ranch park site, which also tested positive.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of viral encephalitis in the United States. Originally discovered in Africa in 1937, WNV was first detected in the United States in 1999 in New York City. Since then it has caused seasonal epidemics of West Nile virus; fever and severe disease. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected with WNV when they feed on infected birds.
80% of people do not show any symptoms of West Nile virus. Approximately 20% of people develop a West Nile virus fever that with mild symptoms that include fever, headache, and body aches, occasionally with skin rash and swollen lymph glands. One in 150 people develop the severe infection which may be marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, and, rarely, death.
Vector Control recommends that we make an effort to prevent mosquitoes by:
- DRAIN any standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
- DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outside. This is when mosquitoes are most active.
- DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
- DEFEND yourself against mosquitoes by using an effective insect repellent, such as DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Make sure you follow label directions!
- DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition. This will prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
- DISTRICT personnel are available to address any mosquito problem you may be experiencing by calling 1-800-429-1022
Visit the Vector Control website at https://www.fightthebite.net/
