LAKEPORT -- Sixteen mosquito samples, one dead bird, and another sentinel chicken tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in Lake County last week.
This year we have had more West Nile virus detected from more locations in the county than in any previous year.
People should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites - especially over the Labor Day weekend when many of people will be outside into the evening when the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are biting.
Residents are urged to help reduce risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines: Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes can't begin their life without water. Defend yourself against mosquitoes using repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are present, typically dawn and dusk. Report neglected swimming pools by calling 263-4770 or visiting www.lcvcd.org. Anonymous calls accepted.
One neglected pool can produce more than a million mosquitoes and affect people as far as five miles away.
Since 2006, four Lake County residents have been diagnosed with West Nile virus.
For 2013, a total of 46 mosquito samples, seven dead birds and two sentinel chickens have tested positive for the virus in Lake County.
This has been the second highest year for West Nile virus activity in Lake County since the virus was detected here in 2004.
No human or horse cases have been reported from Lake County this year.
West Nile virus causes no symptoms in approximately 80 percent of people who are infected. Up to 20 percent of people experience a variety of symptoms that may include fatigue, fever, headache, body aches, rash, and even nausea and vomiting. While the illness can last only a few days, even healthy people have reported being sick for several weeks. Less than 1 percent of cases suffer severe illness, including neurologic effects that may be permanent, and in some instances are fatal.
The LCVCD is a public health agency that protects Lake County residents and visitors from mosquitoes and other vectors and vector-borne diseases. The LCVCD uses the surveillance data to guide its mosquito control activities.
Residents who would like help with a mosquito problem should contact the Lake County Vector Control District at 263-4770 or visit their website at www.lcvcd.org. For more information about West Nile virus, visit http://www.westnile.ca.gov/ .