West Nile Mosquitoes found in Longmont

Local authorities in Menlo Park, California are planning to conduct fumigation in the city this coming weekend in order to prevent the spread of West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes.

Monitoring will continue through the end of September by testing mosquito samples and the collection of dead crows and blue jays.

Last year, the first of 16 human West Nile cases overall was reported August 4.

West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites.

“Finding mosquitoes with West Nile virus this time of year is not unusual”, said Patsy Kelso, state epidemiologist for infectious disease.

Weather permitting, the fogging operation will take place between 9 p.m. Sunday and 5 a.m. Monday in a primarily residential area roughly bounded by Menlo Avenue to the north, San Mateo Drive to the west, Creek Drive to the south and Waverley Street to the east. Approximately 1 percent of people who are infected develop severe illness affecting the central nervous system, such as encephalitis or meningitis, which can be fatal.

Mosquito surveillance was increased in response to the two fatal human cases of EEE that occurred in 2012. They should apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus. Residents should also dump standing water around their homes. About 19 per cent of people will have an illness during which they will experience fever and headache, feel exhausted and achy, and may have a rash.