TWO CASES OF WEST NILE VIRUS IN SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY

The County Health Department has confirmed two human cases of West Nile virus in San Bernardino County, the first in the county this year, Infected mosquitos transmit the virus when they bite. Both victims are elderly men; both are receiving medical care. One man lives in the west side of the county in a place conducive to mosquitos; the other man lives in a place not conducive to mosquitos but travels frequently. A County Health Officer said, “Although the risk of serious illness to most people is low, in some people, West Nile Virus infection can cause serious disease and can be fatal.” Signs and symptoms of the virus include fever, body aches, rash, nausea, vomiting and headache. “Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms,” he said. “However, some people may develop severe symptoms which can lead to brain inflammation or paralysis.” Preventing mosquito bites is the most effective way to avoid being infected with the virus. People can avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active; wearing shoes, socks, long pants and long-sleeved shirts that are loose fitting and light colored; removing or draining all standing water around your property where mosquitoes lay eggs (birdbaths, ponds, old tires, buckets, clogged gutters or puddles from leaky sprinklers); applying insect repellent containing DEET; and making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. The California Department of Public Health has reported increased West Nile virus activity across the state. For more information on West Nile virus, call 800-722-4794.