Mosquitoes collected in Anaheim and Garden Globes have tested positive for the West Nile virus (WNV), marking the first confirmed case this year in Orange County, according to the Orange County Mosquitoes and Vector Control District (OCMVCD).
A dead bird found in the garden globe also tested positive.
The infected mosquitoes were found in four separate areas of two cities near Euclidean Avenue and five highways in Anaheim, as well as Brookhurst Street and Garden Grove Boulevard in Garden Groves.
Amber Semlow, Director of Science and Technology Services at OCMVCD, said: “Anaheim and the Garden Globes are historically high-risk areas for viral activity in the West Nile.”
No human cases have been reported in Orange County this year, but warm summer conditions are ideal for mosquito virus transmission.
The West Nile spreads to humans primarily through infected mosquito bites, and can obtain the virus by feeding infected birds.
As of July 18th, 680 mosquitoes and 51 dead birds have tested positive this year, according to the California West Nile virus. Three cases of infected humans have also been confirmed in Tulare, Stanislaus and Kings counties.
Orange County officials are increasing mosquito surveillance and control in affected areas and post warning signs to neighborhoods where the virus was detected.
To prevent contact with the West Nile virus, agents are urging residents to:
You should clean your weekly pet water bowl and bird baths that drain water, but make sure your repellent contains DEET, picalidine, IR3535, or lemon eucalyptus oil.
“Standing water with dumps and drainage is the most effective and environmentally friendly way to remove mosquitoes from our community,” said Brian Brannon, spokesman for OCMVCD.
For more information and prevention tips, please see here.
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