For Immediate Release
May 27, 2005

Contact: Howard Sutter
(714) 834-2178

West Nile Virus Precautions Urged For Holiday Weekend Events

(Santa Ana) – Memorial Day marks the traditional start of the Summer season, and public health officials are concerned that this year it may also mark the start of the West Nile Virus season in Southern California.

“West Nile Virus (WNV) had an early start in birds and mosquitoes this year, and that could mean an early start to infections in people” said Dr. Mark Horton, County Health Officer. “If you’re going to enjoy outdoor activities this holiday weekend, take along your insect repellent and don’t forget to use it.”

Last year, 830 human cases of WNV infection were reported in California, including 64 in Orange County. There were 28 WNV-related deaths in California, including four in Orange County. Since human cases were confirmed beginning in the month of June last year, public health officials believe it is only a matter of days before the first cases of 2005 are detected.

In spite of the health threat posed by WNV, nearly two-thirds (64%) of Californians responding to a recent survey said they did not take any precautions against mosquito bites last year, and less than 20% reported using an insect repellent that contained DEET. This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has included two additional types of insect repellents to DEET on the list of those considered to give effective protection against the mosquitoes that transmit WNV. Oil of lemon eucalyptus is as effective as low concentrations of DEET in protecting against mosquitoes and is now available for use by consumers in California. The other product, picaridin, is not expected to be available in California this summer. Around your home, WNV prevention recommendations include eliminating any standing water from your property to reduce mosquito breeding and making sure your window and door screens are in good condition to keep mosquitoes outside.

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, rash, or other mild to moderate symptoms. About one out of 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 high fever, confusion, muscle weakness, severe headaches or stiff neck should seek medical care immediately. More information about West Nile Virus is available on the Health Care Agency website at www.ochealthinfo.com/epi/wnv.

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