According to the California Department of Public Health, the first human fatality from West Nile Virus in 2012 has been reported from Kern County. An 88-year old woman from Kern County is the first reported fatality from the virus this year, Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health, announced on Friday.
“This unfortunate death reminds us that we must protect ourselves from mosquito bites to prevent West Nile Virus and other mosquito born infections,” Chapman said. An increase in West Nile Virus activity has occurred earlier this year as compared to last year, he added.
To date in 2012, thirteen human cases of West Nile Virus from six California counties have been reported. Last year at this time there were seven human cases and no deaths. During all of 2011, 159 human cases and nine fatalities were reported. Increased activity is also being seen in other parts of the United States. Nationwide, 241 human cases were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of August 1, 2012. This is the highest number of cases reported through the end of July since 2004.
To date in 2012, Stanislaus County has reported 24 dead bird cases from the virus, one horse infection last week, and four human cases.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. The risk of serious illness to most people is low. However, some individuals – less than 1 percent of those infected – will develop serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. Individuals 50 years of age and older have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop serious symptoms. Studies also show that those people with diabetes and/or hypertension are at greater risk for serious illness.
Chapman said California residents are very good at protecting themselves from mosquito bites for planned events like camping, however we tend to have a false sense of security in our own backyards. The most effective way for individuals to prevent exposure to mosquito bites and West Nile virus is to remember the "Three D’s":
1. DEFEND – Use an EPA-registered insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older.
2. DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes that carry WNV bite in the early morning and evening. It is important to use repellent and wear clothing that reduces the risk of skin exposure to mosquito bites during this time. Make sure your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.
3. DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including buckets, old car tires, and pet bowls. If you have a pond, use mosquito fish (available from your local mosquito and vector control agency) or commercially available products to eliminate mosquito larvae.
California’s West Nile virus website includes the latest information on West Nile virus activity in the state. Californians are encouraged to report all dead birds and dead tree squirrels on the website or by calling toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).
