Stanislaus County reports first case of West Nile illness this year. What you need to know

Health officials on Tuesday confirmed the first case of West Nile virus disease in Stanislaus County this year.

The county Health Services Agency said in a news release the man who tested positive was not seriously ill. But the case indicates the threat of West Nile disease has emerged this summer.

Severe symptoms of West Nile disease include fever, headache, body aches and vomiting, which can lead to life-threatening encephalitis or meningitis.

Most people infected with the virus, which is spread by mosquito bites, won’t have symptoms. About 20% of those infected come down with mild symptoms including fever, headache and fatigue. Fewer than 1% have severe symptoms.

Older adults, people with diabetes and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to developing serious illness when infected with West Nile.

“We want to remind all residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites, especially during the summer months when mosquito activity is at its peak,” said Dr. Thea Papasozomenos, the county’s public health officer.

The West Nile virus has been detected in 443 mosquito samples and 128 dead birds in California, as of July 19, according to the state’s WestNile.ca.gov. website .

Stanislaus County residents can reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection by avoiding mosquito bites. They are advised to:

• Dump and drain water around their homes where mosquitoes can breed.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outdoors.
• Dress in long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when mosquitoes are feeding in the morning and evening.

Residents are encouraged to report dead birds including crows, jays or ravens by calling the California West Nile dead bird center at 877-968-2473 or visiting westnile.ca.gov/report .

Report neglected swimming pools and other mosquito problems to the East Side Mosquito Abatement District (north of the Tuolumne River) at 209-522-4098, or the Turlock Mosquito Abatement District at 209-634-1234.