LAKEPORT, Calif. — Two mosquito samples collected in Lake County have tested positive for West Nile virus.
The mosquitoes were trapped on July 11 near Lakeport and Kelseyville, according to the Lake County Vector Control District.
“West Nile virus shows up each year in Lake County, usually in July,” said Jamesina Scott, Ph.D., district manager and research director of the Lake County Vector Control District. “A positive mosquito sample means that West Nile virus could be transmitted by mosquitoes now, and is a reminder to use mosquito repellent outside during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are biting.”
No other West Nile virus has been detected in Lake County in 2023.
Statewide, 21 California counties have detected WNV this year, mainly in mosquitoes and dead birds.
No human cases have been reported in California this year, but one human case of another mosquito virus, St. Louis encephalitis virus, was reported in a Kern County resident.
Residents are urged to help reduce their risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines:
• Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes grow in standing water.
• Defend yourself with mosquito repellents containing Picaridin, DEET, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or PMD.
• Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are biting, typically dawn and dusk.
• Maintain neglected swimming pools. Just one can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and affect people up to five miles away.
• Report dead birds to the toll-free state hotline, 1-877-968-2473, or online.
The mosquitoes that transmit WNV develop in out-of-service swimming pools and spas, animal watering troughs, ornamental ponds, and other sources of standing water.
The Vector Control District offers free mosquito-eating fish to control mosquitoes in these sources.
Residents are encouraged to contact the district to report neglected pools, request service for mosquito problems, or to get mosquito fish at 707-263-4770 or to fill out a service request online at www.lcvcd.org.
The Lake County Vector Control District traps and tests mosquitoes throughout the county to identify the areas that have the highest risk, and targets those areas for source reduction and treatment using an integrated vector management program.
Residents with questions, or who would like help with a mosquito problem should contact the Lake County Vector Control District at 707-263-4770 (Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or visit their website.
For more information about West Nile virus, visit https://westnile.ca.gov/.
Information about mosquito repellents can be found on the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
West Nile virus detected in Lake County mosquitoes
- LAKE COUNTY NEWS REPORTS
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