First West Nile Virus Death Of 2015 Confirmed In California

MAP as of July 17: Total Counties with WNV in 2015: 33. Alameda, Butte, Colusa, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Kern, Kings, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Marin, Merced, Orange, Placer, Riverside, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Shasta, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tulare, Ventura, Yolo, and Yuba. Courtesy of CDPH.

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The first confirmed death in California in 2015 attributed to the West Nile virus was confirmed today by the California Department of Public Health.

The deceased person was a senior citizen in Nevada County, said State Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith.

“This death is a tragic reminder of how severe West Nile virus disease can be,” Smith said. “West Nile virus activity is more widespread in 2015 than in years past. Californians need to be vigilant in protecting themselves.”

Thirty-three California counties have reported WNV activity so far this year, four more than this time last year and above the five-year average of 22, according to the department. To date, 497 mosquito samples have tested positive for WNV, which exceeds the five-year average of 330.

WNV is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of serious illness to most people is low. However, some individuals – less than one percent – can develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis, officials said.

• Previous: West Nile Virus On Rise In Bay Area, Throughout California

People 50 years of age and older have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications. Studies also indicate that those with diabetes and/or hypertension are at greatest risk for serious illness.

WNV is influenced by many factors such as climate, the number and types of birds and mosquitoes in an area and the level of immunity in birds to the virus, health department officials said. Drought conditions may play a role in the rise of WNV activity because of reduced water sources for birds and mosquitoes. As birds and mosquitoes seek water, they are coming into closer contact with each other than usual, which could amplify transmission of the virus, according to health department officials.

CDPH recommends that individuals prevent exposure to mosquito bites and WNV by practicing the “Three Ds”:

1. DEET – Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, 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 two months of age and older.
2. DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that 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, by emptying flower pots, old car tires, buckets, and other containers. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, please contact your local mosquito and vector control agency.

California’s West Nile virus website includes the latest information on WNV activity in the state. Californians are encouraged to report dead birds on the website or by calling toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).