To date, WNV has been detected in 11 of California's 58 counties. No human cases have yet been reported in 2006. This is the first indication of any WNV activity in Stanislaus County this year. A positive mosquito sample was reported from Merced County last week.

The Turlock Mosquito Abatement District has been actively looking for WNV activity and in May treated over 30,000 acres to reduce the public’s risk of getting WNV. Abatement District Manager Jerry Davis said, "Residents need to take an active part in reducing their risk of getting WNV by eliminating standing water around their homes where mosquitoes might breed, keep their pools in good working order and reporting dead birds. People need to be aware of mosquitoes and use insect repellents where mosquitoes are active.” The District plans to continue looking for WNV by collecting mosquito samples and testing them. Additionally, the District will continue to control both immature mosquito stages and adult mosquitoes to lower the public’s risk of getting WNV.

The public can report dead birds to the California Department of Health Services by logging on to http://westnile.ca.gov/cfm/deadbird.cfm or by calling toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473). As of June 19, 2006, 24 dead birds from 7 California counties have tested positive for WNV during 2006.

“Early detection and eliminating mosquito breeding areas are the main keys to preventing the spread of West Nile virus," Davis added. "We anticipate that there will be increased West Nile virus activity in Northern and Central California over the summer. This positive mosquito sample is a month earlier than last year. Human cases usually follow soon thereafter.” Last year, there were 95 human cases of West Nile Virus infection in Stanislaus County and one death.

“It is important to be on guard to protect yourself and your family from this preventable infection,” says Dr. John Walker, the County Health Officer. The key times of risk for mosquito bites are at dusk and dawn. It remains important to wear insect repellent containing DEET, lemon oil of eucalyptus, or picaridin. It is also important to prevent backyard breeding. For more information on how to protect yourself and your property, please log on to www.stanemergency.com. In addition, there is a recorded message in English and Spanish on the local WNV hotline at (209) 558-8425.

All horse owners are urged to consult their veterinarians about proper and timely WNV vaccinations for their animals. In 2005, 456 equine WNV infections were reported statewide, and 200 horses died or had to be euthanized, most of which involved horses that were not vaccinated.