Residents are encouraged to remove standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.
Mosquitoes in the Rolando neighborhood of San Diego have tested positive for West Nile virus, the first findings of the year in the county. Additionally, four dead birds tested positive for the virus. Public health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures against potential mosquito breeding and bites, as the virus can pose serious health risks, particularly to older adults and those with compromised immune systems. Community vigilance is essential to mitigate the threat.
San Diego – Mosquitoes collected in the Rolando neighborhood of San Diego have tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first such instance in San Diego County in 2023. This finding underscores the ongoing threat posed by the virus, which can be transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.
In addition to the positive mosquito tests, four dead birds in the county have also tested positive for West Nile virus this year. While the virus primarily affects birds, humans can become infected after mosquitoes bite them following a feeding on infected birds. Public health officials are emphasizing the importance of vigilance regarding West Nile virus, especially given that there have been no reported human cases in the area as of yet. Nevertheless, county officials are reminding residents that the virus remains a potentially lethal threat.
West Nile virus can cause a range of symptoms in humans, including headache, fever, nausea, fatigue, skin rash, and swollen glands. In more severe cases, it can lead to serious illness or even death. The risk is considerably higher for older adults and individuals with compromised immune systems. To mitigate the risks associated with the virus, San Diego County is urging residents to adopt preventive measures outlined in its “Prevent, Protect, Report” campaign.
To reduce mosquito breeding environments, it is crucial for residents to remove items that can hold water around their homes. Potential breeding sites include:
Additionally, residents can take advantage of mosquito fish provided by the County’s Vector Control Program to help control breeding in stagnant water sources. These fish can be obtained for free by residents looking to maintain their properties.
When spending time outdoors, individuals are encouraged to wear long sleeves and pants for added protection against mosquito bites. The use of insect repellents containing ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, 2-undecanone, or IR3535 is also advised. Furthermore, residents should ensure that screens on windows and doors are secure to keep mosquitoes at bay.
San Diego County encourages residents to report any mosquito activity, sightings of dead birds (including species such as crows, ravens, jays, hawks, and owls), and any unmaintained water sources. Residents can reach the County Vector Control Program by calling (858) 694-2888 or emailing vector@sdcounty.ca.gov.
Residents are reminded to stay informed and take proactive steps against mosquito-borne illnesses, especially in light of the recent findings in the Rolando neighborhood. For more information on preventing and protecting against West Nile virus and mosquitoes, residents can visit San Diego County’s “Fight the Bite” website. Keeping vigilance is essential in ensuring community health and safety.
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