SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — The San Bernardino County Public Health announced that two mosquitoes collected in the City of San Bernardino tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
“These are the first mosquitoes tested positive in 2018 within the area served by the division of Environmental Health Services Mosquito and Vector Control Program (MVCP)”, stated a news release.
According to the release, people bitten by an infected mosquito may develop West Nile fever and experience flu-like symptoms which may include fever, body aches, skin rash, and fatigue.
In some cases, the fever can develop into a more serious form of the disease.
MVCP is taking steps to eliminate mosquito breeding hazards.
Residents can protect themselves from West Nile Virus by following these tips:
- Drain or dump – Remove all standing water around your property where mosquitoes can lay eggs such as birdbaths, green swimming pools, ponds, old tires, buckets, flower pots, clogged gutters, or even puddles from leaky sprinklers.
- Avoid spending time outdoors at dawn and dusk – This is when mosquitoes are most active.
- Dress appropriately when outdoors — Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeved shirts that are loose fitting and light colored.
- Apply insect repellent – Check that your insect repellent contains DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus and apply it according to manufacturers directions.
- Doors — Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Property owners with pools/spas are encouraged to keep them clean. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in unmaintained green pools and can fly up to 20 miles, potentially transmitting the virus and impacting entire neighborhoods
To learn more about West Nile Virus or to report a dead bird please visit www.westnile.ca.gov.
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