West Nile Virus in Placer County Spurs Treatment Spraying

At the same time, West Nile virus activity continues to spread throughout Sacramento County as more birds and mosquito samples continue to test positive, the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District reported.

The mosquito samples were collected from sites along the county’s western border, from as far south as the north Elverta area, and as far north as Lincoln.

Stanuszek, who is part of the Saginaw County Mosquito Abatement Commission, said he believes the last human case recorded in Saginaw County was in 2002.

Harris said this is about the same time the mosquitos carrying West Nile were found past year, and in the same area. There is no vaccine to prevent human infections.

According to the statement, while most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms of illness, some may become ill, usually three to 15 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

She said there haven’t been any local cases of West Nile virus yet this year.

Environmental health officials are advising people to minimize their exposure to the virus by eliminating any standing water from their property, making sure there are no holes in screen doors or windows, wearing trousers and long sleeves when outside at dawn or dusk, and applying insect repellent when outdoors.

Officials say a resident in Windsor County was sick in mid-June and diagnosed with the virus. The department says that most people infected with the virus develop the less severe form of the disease or experience no symptoms at all.

DRAIN any standing water on your property that may cause mosquitoes, and remember, do not over-irrigate.

Dusk / Dawn: Peak mosquitos biting hours are dusk to dawn.

The mosquitoes that transmit WNV breed in areas with standing and stagnant water. Residents should always use insect repellent according to label directions.

DEET: Cover exposed skin with a repellant containing the chemical DEET, which is most effective against mosquito bites. These areas can include urban catch basins, clogged gutters, discarded tires, poorly maintained swimming pools, flower pots and other types of plastic containers. To keep mosquitoes from entering a home, make sure window and door screens are in place and are in good condition.