Aedes aegypti mosquito, photo via CDC

With high summer temperatures and the continued risk from standing water in swimming pools, garden hoses, sprinklers and backyard ice coolers, Fresno and Madera counties have issued warnings of the presence of West Nile Virus (WNV).

Both counties’ health departments have reported the discovery of the virus. Last Wednesday, Fresno County issued a statement alerting residents of the presence of WNV in samples from within the county.

On Monday, Madera County issued a similar report from samples collected on July 6.

“This early detection of WNV is a reminder of the higher risk this year of getting sick from mosquito bites,” said Madera County Public Health Officer Simon Paul, M.D. “It is important to follow recommendations to lower your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.”

As of July 21, one human case has been reported in Tulare County. 

Both counties’ health departments recommend residents to protect against mosquito bites with the “Three D’s”:

1. Deter – by applying mosquito repellent containing DEET (diethyltouluamide), picaridin, eucalyptus or lemon oil or IR3535. The department says repellents keeps mosquitoes from biting, but should not be used on children under two months of age.
2.  
3. Dawn and dusk – Mosquitoes are most active during the morning and evening. The department encourages residents to ensure their windows and doors are sealed with tight-fitting screens to prevent mosquitoes entering homes and buildings.
4.  
5. Drain – Eliminate standing water on your property by emptying flowerpots, buckets and other potential mosquito breeding locations.

 

“This confirmation is a strong reminder that everyone should take this disease seriously and should take every precaution to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” said Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) Interim Health Office Dr. Rais Vohra.

The FCDPH encourages residents to contact local mosquito control districts if they notice standing or stagnant water, as well as reporting neglected swimming pools — a major source of rural mosquito reproductive patterns.

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