For Immediate Release
Friday, June 4, 2004

Contact: Howard Sutter (714) 834-2178

Birds Test Positive for West Nile Virus

(Santa Ana) – West Nile virus has been detected in three birds collected in Orange County, raising concern among public health officials that the first human cases of the illness could occur at any time.

The positive test results were reported today by the State of California to the Orange County Vector Control District, which had submitted the birds for testing. Previously, West Nile virus had been detected in birds from Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties. To date, there have been no confirmed human cases of West Nile virus infection in California.

“These findings are significant, because they show that West Nile virus is present in Orange County. However, this early warning will only be effective if people take basic precautions to protect themselves from West Nile virus,” said County Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton. “Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid getting West Nile virus infection. We all have a role to play in preventing mosquito breeding in our backyards and neighborhoods.”

Recommended West Nile virus precautions include:

• Eliminating any standing water from your property to reduce mosquito breeding
• Using insect repellent containing DEET, always following label directions
• Making sure your window and door screens are in good condition
• Limiting outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors

Most people who become infected with WNV do not experience symptoms or become ill, but about 20% of those with WNV infection may have fever, headache, body aches and other mild to moderate symptoms. About one out every 150 people infected with WNV may develop a more severe form of the illness and adults over 50 years of age are at increased risk of serious complications from WNV infection. Anyone who develops symptoms such as a high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, severe headaches or stiff neck should seek medical care immediately. More information on West Nile virus is available on the Orange County Health Care Agency Web site at www.ochealthinfo.com/epi/wnv.

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(The birds testing positive were a Western Tanager, collected April 23 in Santa Ana; an American Crow, collected April 27 in Buena Park; and a Mockingbird, collected May 1 in Santa Ana.)