SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Health officials are on alert after a mosquito tested positive for West Nile Virus for the first time this season in Sacramento County.
The sample was collected from Sacramento's Land Park area, just blocks away from where a dead bird tested positive for the virus a week earlier.
In total, three dead birds and one mosquito have tested positive so far, prompting the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District to increase its mosquito trapping and monitoring in the area to find sources where the mosquitos may be breeding.
"West Nile Virus season is definitely here, and people need to be vigilant and take proper precautions," said Luz Maria Robles, a public information officer with the district.
Robles said roughly 80% of people who contract the virus won't get seriously sick, but it's especially dangerous for the very young and old.
“20% of people develop West Nile Virus symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and then one in 150 people develop the very severe form of the disease that can actually lead to death," Robles said.
Last year in California, there were 433 confirmed human cases of the disease, including 19 people who died.
In Sacramento County alone, there were 53 human cases and five people who died.
Robles said everyone should take precautions and check around their home for any standing water where they could be breeding.
When you're out and about, effective bug repellent is the best defense against mosquito bites.
To report concerns, visit www.fightthebite.net.
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