For Immediate Release
August 25, 2005

Contact: Howard Sutter
(714) 834-2178

Orange County Reports Fifth West Nile Virus Case For 2005

(Santa Ana) – Orange County’s total of West Nile Virus cases now stands at five, while at least 300 human cases have been reported statewide.

The latest confirmed case is a 49-year-old Irvine woman who developed symptoms consistent with West Nile Fever in early August. The individual did not require hospitalization and is continuing to recover from the infection.

“We have been very fortunate to have a lower number of West Nile Virus illnesses this year as compared to 2004,” said County Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton. “However, Orange County residents should continue to take precautions against mosquito bites, because West Nile Virus remains active in our area and the season is far from over.”

Among recommended personal precautions against mosquito bites are:

• Using insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, always following label directions

• Emptying all standing water on your property to reduce mosquito breeding

• Making sure your door and window 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 West Nile Virus do not experience symptoms or become seriously ill. Up to 20% of those infected with West Nile Virus will experience symptoms of West Nile fever, which may include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, tiredness, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash. Anyone who develops more serious symptoms such as a high fever, severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, muscle weakness, or vision loss should seek medical care immediately. Adults over 50 years of age are at increased risk of serious complications from WNV infection.

Information on mosquito control is available on the Orange County Vector Control District’s website at www.ocvcd.org. Other websites with helpful information about West Nile Virus include:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov

• State of California www.westnile.ca.gov

• Orange County Health Care Agency www.ochealthinfo.com

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