HomeMy WebLinkAbout8.4.22 For Immediate Release_ First Human West Nile Virus Infection Confirmed in Butte CountyFrom:Almaguer, Lisa
To:BOS; Cox, Erin; McSpadden, Elaine; Nicholas, Jodi; Putnam, Jodi; Soderstrom, Monica; Star, Nanette
Cc:York, Danette; Canton, David
Subject:For Immediate Release: First Human West Nile Virus Infection Confirmed in Butte County
Date:Thursday, August 4, 2022 9:09:33 AM
The following release will be issued shortly…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 4, 2022
First Human West Nile Virus Infection Confirmed in Butte County
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health (BCPH) has confirmed this year’s
first human West Nile Virus (WNV) infection in Butte County. As of July 29, 2022, seven
human WNV infections have been reported in California. WNV is active June through
October, with August typically being the peak month in Butte County. BCPH would like to
remind residents to protect themselves from WNV by reducing mosquitoes on their property
and preventing mosquito bites.
The infected person is over 65 years of age and is experiencing a severe WNV illness.
People infected with WNV generally fall into three categories:
Asymptomatic (8 in 10 people)
Mild to moderate fever illness with fatigue and body aches (1 in 5 people)
Severe illness with neurologic symptoms such as encephalitis or meningitis (less than
1 in 150 people). For those who develop a severe WNV illness, symptoms may last
several weeks and some symptoms may be permanent.
People 50 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.
WNV is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes
become infected when they feed on infected birds. Residents can reduce the risk of
infection by practicing the “Three Ds”:
1. DEET – Use a proven insect repellent like DEET. Other recommended repellents
include: picaradin, lemon eucalyptus oil, para-menthane-diol, IR3535 or 2-
undecanone. Always use according to label instructions. DEET can be used safely on
infants and children 2 months of age and older.
2. DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes that transmit WNV bite in the early morning and
evening. Wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure
that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or
replace screens with tears or holes.
3. DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate or drain all sources
of standing water on your property, including flower pots, old car tires, rain gutters
and pet bowls. For standing water that cannot be drained such as fountains, ponds,
etc., consider adding “Mosquito Dunks” or mosquito fish, which feed on mosquito
larvae. Report unmaintained swimming pools to the local Mosquito and Vector
Control District at (530) 342-7350 or (530) 533-6038.
For more information about WNV, visit the BCPH West Nile Virus website.
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Lisa Almaguer
Communications Manager / PIO
BUTTE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH
202 Mira Loma Drive | Oroville, CA 95965
“Nationally Accredited, 09/13/17”
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