To date, WNV has been detected in 13 of California’s 58 counties in 32 dead birds and 11 mosquito samples. The first report of a person becoming infected with WNV was reported by the California Department of Health Services in Kern County on June 22. In 2005, a total of 935 human WNV infections were reported in 40 counties, including 19 deaths. The virus was detected in 54 out of 58 counties.

When the District receives reports that a bird is infected with WNV, the District sets out baited traps to determine mosquito populations and to find out if any in the area are infected with WNV. If any mosquitoes are found infected or if mosquito populations are higher than normal the District controls the mosquitoes by using a public health adulticides that contains pyrethrin that is registered for spraying in and around residences Manager 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. Additional the District will continue to control both immature mosquito stages and adult mosquitoes to lower the public’s risk of getting WNV.

The District has set out baited traps and identified some locations in Southeast Turlock and east of Turlock that have above normal mosquito populations. These locations are scheduled to be treated Tuesday, June 27th between 3:30 am and 5:30 a.m. Manager Davis said.

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 today, 24 dead birds from 7 California counties have tested positive for WNV.

“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 an increased West Nile virus activity in Northern and Central California over the summer.”

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.

For more information about WNV please visit the following websites:

www.westnile.ca.gov for WNV information from the California State Department of Health Services. For more information on how to protect yourself and your property, please log on to www.stanemergency.com.

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm for WNV information from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your property, please log on to www.stanemergency.com.