The first indication of West Nile virus (WNv) for 2017 has been reported in Shasta County in a positive dead bird collected in the Redding, CA area. Birds are natural hosts for WNv and are routinely monitored to indicate whether the virus is active in the District boundaries.
“The first WNv positive indicator is often identified in Shasta County during the warm summer months. The risk for human infection builds through the season and peaks in August and September. It is important that everyone take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites; it only takes one,” stated Peter Bonkrude, District Manager of the Shasta Mosquito and
Vector Control District.
In addition, the District is asking that residents eliminate any potential mosquito sources on their property to help in the reduction of adult mosquitoes. West Nile virus continues to exhibit levels statewide that are similar or higher than previous years, with positive WNv indicators throughout California counties.
Due to this increase in WNv transmission, the District has augmented surveillance and treatment of larval and adult mosquitoes in the affected areas.
SMVCD staff urges residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites; reducing activity during the peak mosquito feeding times at dawn and dusk, wearing effective insect repellent, and staying behind screened windows and doors whenever possible.
The Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District advises the public to implement the 4 Ds of protection:
? Drain any standing water that may produce mosquitoes, including flower
pots, old tires, and buckets. Some species of mosquitoes can lay their eggs in very
small sources of water, like a bottle cap.
? Defend yourself and your home by using an effective insect repellent, dressing protectively
when outside and making sure screens on doors and windows are in good condition.
? Dusk or Dawn, avoid outside activities.
? Dress in long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are active.
2017 Shasta County West Nile virus activity: 1 dead bird, 0 sentinel chickens, 0 mosquito samples, and 0 humans tested positive for West Nile virus. California West Nile virus activity: 264 dead birds, 155 sentinel chickens, 2,545 mosquito samples, and 87 humans tested positive for West Nile virus.
For more information about SMVCD’s services, West Nile virus or new emerging mosquito borne diseases like Zika virus, contact the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District at (530) 365-3768 or visit www.shastamosquito.org
