“The majority of our cases do not recall being bitten by a mosquito,” stated Dr. Walker. “It’s not enough for people just to be on the lookout for mosquitoes. People need to continue precautions such as using repellant with DEET, or the two new agents approved by the
FDA; one contains picaridin and the other oil of lemon eucalyptus. All three preparations are available locally.”

With recent rainy weather, people are encouraged to check their homes to remove any standing water. Water that stands for four days or longer can provide mosquitoes a place to breed.

West Nile virus is not spread from person-to-person. WNV is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. People typically develop symptoms from 2 – 15 days after they are bitten by an infected mosquito.

Stanislaus County has a West Nile virus hotline in English and Spanish. The number has recorded information on the disease. The public can call (209) 558-8425. You can find WNV information on the Health Services Agency website at www.hsahealth.org.

Report mosquito infestations to the East Side Mosquito Abatement District at (209) 522-4098 or the Turlock Mosquito Abatement District at (209) 634-1234. The State of California is still requesting that residents of Stanislaus County report dead birds to the state hotline at 1-877-WNV-BIRD. The public may also submit the information via the web site www.westnile.ca.gov

It is a good health practice never to handle any dead animals with your bare hands. There is currently no evidence that the West Nile Virus can be transmitted to humans that have taken precautions when handling dead birds.