News Summary
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.
Understanding West Nile Virus
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.
Preventive Measures Recommended
To reduce mosquito breeding environments, it is crucial for residents to remove items that can hold water around their homes. Potential breeding sites include:
- Plant saucers
- Rain barrels
- Buckets
- Garbage cans
- Toys
- Old tires
- Wheelbarrows
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.
Protective Measures While Outdoor
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.
Reporting and Assistance
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.
Conclusion
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.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS 8
- Wikipedia: West Nile Virus
- County News Center
- Google Search: West Nile Virus
- Fox 5 San Diego
- Google Scholar: West Nile Virus
- NBC San Diego
- Encyclopedia Britannica: West Nile Virus
- Fox 5 San Diego – Imperial County
- Google News: Mosquitoes West Nile Virus San Diego
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
