STANISLAUS COUNTY, Calif. — San Joaquin County Public Health Services announced its first human case of West Nile Virus Wednesday.
A 57-year-old Stockton man received medical services at a Sacramento health facility.
West Nile is primarily contracted through the bite of an infected mosquito to a person.
“This time of year, when mosquitos are more present, we highly encourage the public to
stay safe by wearing EPA-approved repellents and following California Department of Public Health (CDPH) bite-prevention guidelines," Dr. Maggie Park, San Joaquin County
Public Health Officer, said in a statement.
People should be aware of symptoms of serious infection including fever, severe headaches, stiff neck, disorientation, or confusion. According to San Joaquin County Public Health Services, people should seek medical attention if they have been bitten and have these symptoms.
The following tips are given 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: West Nile Virus is here. Fight the bite.
