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West Nile Virus Detected in SD County for 1st Time This Year


Mosquitoes in Santee have tested positive for West Nile virus, the first time this year the virus has been detected in San Diego.

No people or birds, the main carriers of West Nile virus have tested positive in San Diego County, this year, county officials said. The virus was detected in Aedes mosquitos during routine testing.

Many people bitten by infected mosquitos will never experience any symptoms. However, those who do may experience headache, fever, nausea, rashes, fatigue or swollen glands, according to the statement.

In rare cases, the virus can make a person extremely sick and become deadly.

Last year two residents in San Diego County tested positive for West Nile virus but both recovered. The state of California had 600 positive West Nile cases and 44 deaths. 

San Diego County officials encourage residents to protect themselves from mosquitos by using insect repellent or wearing pants and long sleeves when outdoors and removing standing water, like water fountains and rain gutters, which can be possible breeding sources.

The county’s Vector Control Program (VCP) makes aerial drops on possible mosquito breeding areas once every three to four weeks and treats certain areas by hand to prevent spread. 

Increased mosquito activity, being bitten during daylight hours, dead birds and mosquito breeding sources can be reported to the Vector Control Program at (858) 694-2888 or by emailing vector@sdcounty.ca.gov.


Source: NBC San Diego

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