West Nile Virus Found In Orange County: Mosquito Prevention Tips

ORANGE, CA — Orange County's vector control district announced that a sample of mosquitoes has tested positive for the West Nile virus. The mosquitoes were collected at El Camino Real Park in the city of Orange on July 30, according to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District.

Nine birds with the virus have been found in Cypress, Buena Park, Huntington Beach, and Tustin.

Thus far, no people have been afflicted with the virus.

Officials plan to do more trapping of the bugs around El Camino Real Park and have been alerting the public with flyers. Inspectors are also going door-to-door to check for any sources of standing water that can help contribute to breeding.

Heat and humidity have created an ideal environment for mosquitoes to breed, Lora Young, a spokeswoman for the OCMVCD said. "It is critical that residents take the necessary steps to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sources and prevent mosquito bites."

The mosquitoes get infected when feeding on birds with the virus, and the insects pass on the virus to humans.

Symptoms of the virus include fever and head and body aches. In rare cases, it can be fatal, with young children, the elderly or people with a weakened immune system most vulnerable.

Follow the tips below to prevent mosquito bites:

• Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended
• Wear repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home
• Repair broken or damaged screens
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter-colored clothing

Around the home, eliminating breeding sources for mosquitoes is critical:

• Dump and drain containers filled with water at least once a week
• Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly
• Dump water from potted plant saucers

Orange County residents are urged to report unusual numbers of mosquitoes to OCMVCD.

For more information, please contact the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District at (714) 971-2421 or (949) 654-2421, or visit www.ocvector.org.