West Nile Virus found in Central Valley mosquitoes

FRESNO, Calif ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Mosquitoes around the Central Valley have tested positive for West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis virus, the Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District announced Wednesday.

According to the CDC, most people do not develop symptoms for either virus, but for those that do, the consequences can be deadly.

Per CDC statistics , about 20% of people who are infected develop a fever with headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. One in 150 people develop more severe symptoms including encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).

The CDC says the St. Louis Encephalitis virus is similar to the West Nile virus in that most will not develop symptoms, but those who do may experience fever, headache, dizziness, nausea, and generalized weakness. Like the West Nile virus, severe symptoms can lead to encephalitis or meningitis.

There are no vaccines or medicines to prevent or specifically treat either virus. Here are tips that the CDC recommends:

• Using an EPA-registered insect repellent on exposed skin or wearing loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and pants when outside from dusk to dawn to avoid being bitten.
• The Mosquito Abatement District says it is also important to empty any water-holding containers at least once a week, including pet water dishes, to deter mosquito production who use the still water to breed.

“It is essential for residents to take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites and mosquito development around their homes,” said Katherine Ramirez, the Director of Science and Outreach for the District.

The mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus were discovered within city limits in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Kingsburg, and Selma. The mosquitoes infected with St. Louis Encephalitis virus were found in Fresno and Clovis.

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