First West Nile Virus activity noted

By ERIC LINDBERG — July 10, 2009

A yellow-billed magpie found dead in the Happy Canyon area of the Santa Ynez Valley late last month has marked the beginning of West Nile Virus season for local residents.

Local health officials are urging citizens to take all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as the annoying insects transmit the disease from infected birds to humans and other animals.

“This is not unexpected,” Dr. Elliot Schulman, head of the county’s public health department, said in a news release in reference to the first sign of the virus this year. “Summer is the time when mosquito activity increases. It’s a good reminder for us all to take steps to avoid mosquito bites.”

Fortunately, most individuals who contract the virus will not experience any illness. Some may have mild symptoms, such as fever, headache and body aches. However, those with lowered immune systems and the elderly are at risk for more severe and life-threatening symptoms.

As a result, officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor activity when mosquitoes are out in force, typically from dusk to dawn. Those who choose to go outdoors should wear protective clothing and apply insect repellant.

Door and window screens should be secured, and any pools of standing or stagnant water should be eliminated. Immature mosquitoes develop in dirty pools, spas, ponds, birdbaths and other forms of standing water, and grow into biting adults within a week.

Horse owners should speak with their veterinarian and have their horses vaccinated for the virus.

The virus has been detected in 25 of California’s 58 counties this year, although no human cases have been confirmed. Last year, only one dead bird in Santa Barbara County tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Additional information about the mosquito-borne virus is available at www.sbcphd.org, www.westnile.ca.gov, or by calling the county’s Mosquito and Vector Management District at 969-5050.

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