Yolo County Resident Contracts West Nile Virus

A case of West Nile Virus has been found in a person in Yolo County.

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District says the infection was discovered last week.

A Sacramento County resident has also contracted the virus, and officials say that case could be accompanied by "headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures, and paralysis."

Last year, 20 people died from West Nile Virus in California.

“As we enter one of the hottest months of the year, the risk of contracting West Nile virus is greater,” a press release quoted Vector Control District Manager David Brown as saying. “More than ever, it’s imperative for everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites by always wearing an effective mosquito repellent.”

The district recommends draining standing water, avoiding the outdoors at dawn and dusk, wearing long sleeves and pants, using mosquito repellant and ensuring your windows and doors can't let bugs inside.

A full press release from the district follows:

FIRST HUMAN WEST NILE VIRUS CASE CONTRACTED THIS SEASON CONFIRMED IN SACRAMENTO COUNTY

–Widespread activity continues throughout Sacramento and Yolo Counties

Sacramento, Ca.—The Sacramento County Division of Public Health and the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District have recorded the first contracted human case of West Nile virus for Sacramento County in 2013. This case is neuro-invasive, symptoms of which can include; headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures, and paralysis. 

“This first case, along with other indicators, is a reminder to us all that mosquito season is here and it is very important for people to protect themselves when outdoors,” said Dr. Olivia Kasirye, Sacramento County Public Health Officer. “West Nile virus is very serious especially for the elderly, the very young and the chronically ill.” 

Last week, the first human case was also confirmed in Yolo County. West Nile virus activity continues to be intense and widespread throughout both counties as chickens, dead birds and mosquito samples test positive for the disease. 

“As we enter one of the hottest months of the year, the risk of contracting West Nile virus is greater” said David Brown,District Manager.“More than ever, it’s imperative for everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites by always wearing an effective mosquito repellent,” he added.

In response to the recent findings, the District will continue to monitor mosquito and virus activity in the area through widespread trapping and testing. Poor weather conditions and smoky skies due to regional fires may delay any ground or aerial work to control adult infected mosquitoes.

In 2012, 20 deaths and 479 human West Nile virus cases were reported in California.

2013 West Nile virus activity update:

Sacramento County: 2 humans, 74 dead birds and 204 mosquito samples, 1 horse, 2 chickens have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.

Yolo County: 1 human case, 43 dead birds, 138 mosquito samples, 1 chicken have tested positive for West Nile virus to date

Practice the District D’s of Mosquito Prevention:

DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes.

DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors.

DRESS appropriately be wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.

DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent.  Make sure to follow label directions!

DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.

DISTRICT personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call them at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net