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The first detection of West Nile Virus in Fresno County was announced today by the Fresno County Department of Public Health after it was notified of the detection by the California Department of Public Health.

The detection is the first activity in the county this year.

The county health department is working with the Fresno County Mosquito Control Districts to increase mosquito surveillance in an effort to closely monitor the disease. It will also conduct public outreach and encourage the use of Environmental Protection Agency-registered insecticides in areas with high mosquito activity.

“This finding serves as a strong reminder that everyone should take this disease seriously and take every precaution to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” said Dr. Rais Vohra, Fresno County Department of Public Health Interim Health Officer. “The risk of disease due to WNV is highest throughout the summer and early fall.”

Fresno County residents are urged to contact their local mosquito control district to report mosquito-related threats, including standing water, mosquito issues and neglected swimming pools.

The county also recommends residents practice the “Three Ds” to help protect themselves.

Deter: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to repel mosquitoes from biting. These repellents should not be used on children under two months of age.

Dawn and Dusk: Residents are urged to wear appropriate clothing and repellent if outside at these times, as they are the times when mosquitoes that transmit the virus are most active.

Drain: Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water; the department urges residents to eliminate all sources of standing water and report poorly maintained swimming pools to local mosquito control districts.

Residents are also encouraged to report dead birds on the California West Nile website or by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).

A list of mosquito control districts can be found here.