Community Corner

West Nile Virus Detected in Crow Found in County

Solano County health officials urge prevention of disease with the discovery of a crow found dead in Dixon that tested positive for the disease

Solano County health officials announced Tuesday that a dead American crow in Dixon has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV).  This is the first confirmed WNV positive bird in Solano County in 2011.

There have been no confirmed human cases of WNV in Solano County this year; however, there have been 105 human cases statewide. There have been four human fatalities in California in 2011 (two in Kern County and two in Los Angeles County). Solano County officials are urging residents to continue to protect themselves from mosquitoes and West Nile virus. 

“The high number of homes in foreclosure throughout Solano County has caused a sharp increase in poorly maintained swimming pools capable of producing the types of mosquitoes that can spread the virus,” said Jon Blegen, Solano County Mosquito Abatement District manager.  “I encourage residents who are aware of unmaintained pools to notify our office by calling
(707) 437-1116.”

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“It’s important to remember that West Nile virus infection is preventable,” said Dr. Bela Matyas, Solano County Health Officer. “Humans contract West Nile virus from the bite of a mosquito that has itself become infected with West Nile virus by feeding on the blood of an infected bird.  I encourage all residents to do what they can to avoid mosquito bites.”

Dr. Matyas urges county residents to remember the five D’s of West Nile virus prevention:

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  • Dawn and dusk—wear pants and long sleeved shirts when you are going to be out at these times.
  • DEET—use an insect repellent that contains DEET (the non-DEET alternatives, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are also approved by the Environmental Protection Agency).
  • Doors and windows—make sure screens are tight fitting and doors close completely.
  • Drain standing water around your house or use mosquito fish in areas that accumulate water.  Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in as little as several tablespoons of standing water.  Mosquito fish are available free of charge through the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District at (707) 437-1116.
  • Dead birds—report dead birds online at www.westnile.ca.gov or by calling
    1-877-WNV-BIRD.  Citizen reports of dead birds help the state track WNV and can also be important in predicting where human cases may occur.

“It is important to remember that following bites by mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus, the majority of people may never experience any signs or symptoms.  About one in five people who are bitten by an infected mosquito may experience fever or notice mild flu-like symptoms,” Dr. Matyas said.

People who need to be most cautious are the elderly, persons whose immune systems are compromised by illnesses, such as HIV/AIDS infection, and patients undergoing cancer treatments or treatment with steroids. However, everyone is at risk and should take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Horse owners are reminded to get vaccinations for their horses.  Horses are susceptible to West Nile virus and the vaccines are effective in preventing horse fatalities. 

For more information about West Nile virus in California, visit www.westnile.ca.gov

Info: Solano County press release


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