Mosquito Control and West Nile Virus

The following paragraph is from the California West Nile Virus website.

West Nile Virus first appeared in California in 2002 with the identification of one human case. In 2003 WNV activity was found in six counties with three human cases. In 2004 , WNV activity was identified in all 58 counties with 779 identified human cases. Out of the 779 human cases, there were 28 fatalities. In 2005 WNV activity was identified in 54 counties with 880 human cases and 19 fatalities. In 2006 54 counties had WNV activity with 278 human cases. The state had a total of 7 fatalities last year.

What is WNV and how do you get it?

WNV is a mosquito-borne disease that is common in Africa, west Asia and the Middle East. The virus is carried long distances by infected birds and then spread locally by mosquitos that bite the infected birds.

What are the symptoms and treatment?

It is estimated that less than 1% who are infected with WNV will become severely ill and require hospitalization. Most infected people will not get sick or only experience mild flu-like symptoms. Symptoms include headache, fever, fatigue and muscle aches. However, in some cases, especially among the elderly and those who are immunocompromised, it can be fatal.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for WNV infection.  If you have symptoms of WNV, call your doctor.

Preventative Measures

• Eliminate standing water.  Mosquitos breed in standing water. Remove empty buckets, receptacles, empty flower pots, old tires to prevent standing water
• Clean birdbaths on a regular basis.
• Maintain or cover your swimming pools and saunas.
• Keep gutters clear of debris and prevent water buildup.
• Keep dumpsters covered. Remove any water inside.
• Stock garden ponds with mosquito larvae eating fish.  Check with your local mosquito and vector control providers.  Some offer the fish free. Consult your yellow pages.
• Use mosquito dunks in garden ponds.  Dunks are donut shaped pellets that kill mosquito larvae with BTI (Bacillus thuringienis israelensis), a natural bacteria.  They dissolve slowly in water.  Be sure to follow instructions carefully.
• Fix screens on windows and screen doors
• Wear insect repellent, long sleeve shirts and long pants outdoors particularly at dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active.
• Repair leaking exterior faucets to prevent water buildup (and conserve water).  
• Visit California West Nile Virus website.  You'll find:

      -Latest press releases

      -PDF Brochures on West Nile Virus

      -Instructions for reporting dead birds on-line and a bird identification page

      -Additional links for information