For Immediate Release
June 24, 2005

Contact: Howard Sutter
(714) 834-2178

Summer’s Here – So Is West Nile Virus!

(Santa Ana) – The longer days and warmer temperatures associated with the arrival of Summer have been accompanied by two main indicators of West Nile Virus activity in Orange County, meaning the first human illnesses associated with the virus are probably just around the corner.

“There has been a recent increase in the detection of West Nile Virus (WNV) in dead birds and mosquitoes in Orange County,” said Dr. Mark Horton, County Health Officer. “Based on previous experience, we believe that human cases will be reported very soon, but we want to remind the public it is never too late to help prevent West Nile Virus cases.”

WNV has been detected in dead birds found in at least 13 Orange County communities this year, while mosquito pools from Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Santa Ana and Seal Beach have also tested positive. The virus is expected to be found again this year in all regions of the county.

Since a high percentage of mosquitoes breed on private property, Orange County residents are encouraged to dump out any standing water around their homes and businesses and to check their property each week for any new collection of standing water due to sprinklers or other water sources. Other key prevention measures include:

• Using insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always read and follow label directions!
• Making sure doors and windows have tight fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home.

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. While no human WNV cases have been reported in California this year, the nation’s first human WNV case of 2005 has recently been reported in Kansas.

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, fatigue, 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. More information about West Nile Virus is available on the Health Care Agency website at www.ochealthinfo.com/epi/wnv.

###