West Nile death reported in Yuba County

The California Department of Public Health confirmed Monday there have been two deaths this year due to West Nile virus. One of the dead was a Yuba County resident, the other was from Glenn County.

As of Sept. 7, there have been 56 human cases of the virus throughout the state. In addition to that, there have been 422 dead birds and 1,606 mosquito samples found to have the virus across California.

“We are still in a peak period of West Nile virus transmission in the state, so we urge everyone to take every possible precaution to protect themselves against mosquito bites,” said CDPH Director and State Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith, in a press release.

The virus is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito.

Most people aren’t at a high risk of becoming seriously ill from exposure, however, people 60 years of age and older and individuals with diabetes or hypertension have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications, according to the press release.

For more information about the virus and recent activity throughout the state, visit www.westnile. ca.gov.

‘Three Ds’ to protecting yourself (California Department of Public Health): DEET – Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. Insect repellents should not be used on children under two months of age.

DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus usually bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure your doors and windows have tightfitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property by emptying flower pots, old care tires, buckets and other containers. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, please contact your local mosquito and vector control agency.

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