PLACER COUNTY, Calif. — A Lincoln man has died of West Nile virus, Placer County officials said Monday.
This is the first death related to West Nile virus in the county since 2018. While his identity has not been released, Placer County said he was over 65.
“We’re saddened to learn of this individual’s passing, and extend our sympathies to their loved ones,” Dr. Rob Oldham, director of Health and Human Services and interim health officer said in a statement. “While we are late in mosquito season, it is a sobering reminder about the importance of taking precautions.”
The risk of contracting West Nile virus in Placer County is low and the virus hasn't been detected in mosquito or dead bird samples in four weeks, according to the county.
However, a record number of mosquitos and dead bird samples were found with West Nile virus in Placer County this season.
"This season, we saw record numbers of West Nile virus in our mosquito and dead bird population which increases the risk for West Nile virus transmission to humans," Joel Buettner, general manager of the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District said in a statement. “This tragic death reminds us that West Nile virus can be a potentially life-threatening disease and we need to take precautions to limit our exposure to mosquito bites."
Some people infected with the virus may develop mild symptoms such as fever, headache and fatigue. It's rare for people infected with the virus to have serious neurological illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis.
The following tips are to help prevent West Nile virus:
- Drain standing water around the property and keep water in swimming pools, ponds and water troughs circulating or treated with "Mosquito Dunks" or mosquito fish.
- Apply insect repellent that contains DEET or another approved substance (e.g. picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR 3535) on exposed skin when outdoors.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants when outdoors among mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.
- Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens, kept in good condition.
- Report dead birds and tree squirrels to the State West Nile Virus hotline at (877) WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473) or online at www.westnile.ca.gov.
- Wear gloves and place the dead bird or squirrel in a double plastic bag if you dispose of it yourself.
Additional West Nile virus information can be found HERE.
Watch more on ABC10: Placer County sees record number of West Nile virus in mosquitoes
