First Human Case of West Nile Virus Announced in Orange County

SANTA ANA, CA— The recent mosquito warnings of Zika Virus have been on the rise across the nation. With the Olympic Games in Rio, many athletes are pulling out from the Olympics for fear of being bitten by mosquitoes carrying Zika Virus. But today, the Orange County health officials remind of a much more immediate concern for the elderly and those with a weak immune system. Orange County health department has announced the first human case of West Nile virus this year.

"An Anaheim woman in her 60s has been hospitalized since July and is in serious condition," Dr. Eric Handler, the county's health officer said. "The best way to avoid West Nile virus infection is to take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites."

The same mechanism to avoid West Nile Virus can be utilized to avoid Zika Virus. Remember to use repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or products that contain IR3535. But there are other factors involved with those who are most affected by the bites of the mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus.

“We do have public health concerns regarding the spread of Zika here in the United States, especially with what is currently happening in Florida. But West Nile Virus is being actively transmitted from mosquito to human here in Orange County, which had the highest number of WNV infections in the state in 2014 with 282 infections, of which 197 were the more serious neurologic form, and 9 deaths," Handler said.

In 2015, there were 97 reported human infections of WNV and 8 WNV-related deaths reported in Orange County.

"People should take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites," Handler recommended in a statement, "such as using DEET and wearing protective clothing.”

Who is affected by West Nile Virus?

The elderly and other people with weak immune systems are at the highest risk of developing severe illnesses such as meningitis and encephalitis. Cases are generally reported between July and October or early November, according to the Orange County Health Department.

"West Nile virus is endemic in Orange County, recurring every year during the summer months and continuing into the fall," said Handler.

The first human case of West Nile virus in Los Angeles County for the 2016 season was reported on July 20.

An "elderly" Echo Park man was hospitalized in late June and is recovering at home, health officials said. In 2015, Orange County logged 97 reported human infections of WNV and eight WNV-related deaths, and Los Angeles County recorded 300 human infections, including 24 fatalities.

What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?

Symptoms may never materialize, but can include:

• fever
• headache
• nausea
• body aches
• skin rashes
• swollen lymph nodes

How does a mosquito become a West Nile Virus carrier?

Mosquitoes typically become carriers of the virus after feeding on an infected bird and can then spread the potentially lethal strain to animals and humans.

How do I avoid getting exposed to the West Nile Virus?

Residents are urged to take the following precautions, according to the Orange County Health Department.

• limit outdoor activity at dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are generally on the move;
• wear pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors;
• use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or products containing IR3535;
• ensure door and window screens are in good condition and fitted properly to keep bugs out; and
• get rid of standing water -- aside from pools properly treated with chemicals -- to reduce areas in which mosquitoes may breed, including flower pots and pet bowls.

Information on mosquito control is available on the Orange County Vector Control District's website at www.ocvcd.org .