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West Nile Virus was detected in almost all California counties last year.
The illness, spread by infected mosquitos, caused many illnesses
and deaths. This disease must be taken very seriously. I am encouraging
all Californians to learn more about the disease, how to identify
it, and to take steps to avoid it and prevent it.
Though most people will survive West Nile Virus, many population groups, including the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at risk of serious illness and even death. My web feature on West Nile Virus is designed to give you the information you need to protect yourself and those you love. I would, of course, be happy to hear your ideas on this topic. Click here to send me an e-mail message.
West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can result in
cases of meningitis and encephalitis, and cause death to humans,
horses, birds, and other wildlife. The virus produces no visible
symptoms in about 80 percent of those infected. A majority of those
who do contract the disease suffer only a few days of mild fever
and malaise. Typically, 1 in 150 (mostly the elderly and those with
vulnerable immune systems) get serious nervous-system infections.
Because there is no cure or vaccine for humans, the only defense is mosquito control. But public awareness and action can make your home and neighborhood safer.
Below are a few tips to reduce the risk of becoming infected, from wearing protective clothing, to organizing neighborhood clean-ups.
Avoid Mosquito Bites
- Apply a spray or lotion with an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin before going outdoors. DEET (short for N, N-diethyl-meta-touamide) does not kill insects, but repels them from treated skin and clothing. Click here for more information on DEET.
- Wear long-sleeves, long pants, and socks outdoors when possible. For extra protection, spray thin clothing with insect repellent.
- Peak mosquito biting times are between early evening and early morning. Try to use repellent and wear protective clothing if you are outdoors during these times.
Mosquito-Proof Your Home
- Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. At least twice a week, drain standing water in areas around your home, such as flower pots, pet food and water dishes, birdbaths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels, and cans. Check clogged rain gutters, and remove discarded tires and other items which could collect water.
- Keep mosquitoes outside by installing well-fitting screens on windows and doors.
Help Your Neighborhood
- Dead birds may be a sign that West Nile virus is circulating
between birds and the mosquitoes in an area. To
report dead birds to the California Department of Health Services,
call (877-WNV-BIRD).
- Control mosquito breeding sites throughout your area by organizing a neighborhood clean up day to pick up possible standing water containers from vacant lots and parks, or encouraging neighbors to keep their yards free of standing water.
- Check with local health authorities to see if there is an organized mosquito control program in your area, or help establish a program with your local government officials.
Learn More From the Following West Nile Virus Information Websites
 California Department of Food & Agriculture
California West Nile Surveillance Information Center
"Fight the Bite" West Nile Virus Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California
The National Pesticide Information Center
Local Government and Agency Websites
Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District
Alameda County Vector Control Services District
Antelope Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District
Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District
Contra Costa County Health Services
Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District
El Dorado County Environmental Health Division's West Nile Virus Webpage
Humboldt
County Department of Health and Human Services: Humboldt Health
Alert
Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District
Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District
Los Angeles County Dept. of Health Services
Marin/Sonoma County Mosquito/Vector Control District
Monterey
County Health Department
Orange County Vector Control District
County of Orange West Nile Virus Information
Placer County Mosquito Abatement District
Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District
San Benito County Health & Human Services Agency
San Francisco Department of Public Health
San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District
San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department
San Mateo County Health Services Agency
San Barbara County Public Health Department
San Barbara Coastal Vector Control District
Santa Clara County Vector Control District
Santa Cruz County Environmental Health Services
Shasta County Department of Public Health
Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District
Sutter-Yuba
Mosquito and Vector Control District
Turlock
Mosquito Abatement District
Ventura County Health Care Agency
West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District
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