West Nile virus and St. Louis Encephalitis virus detected in Visalia

The Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District has reported that two mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), and one tested positive for St. Louis Encephalitis virus (SLEV) in Visalia.

This is Tulare County's first indication of West Nile virus this year, according to the district. The mosquitoes were reported on July 2 and 3.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected female mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds, before spreading West Nile virus to people and other animals through bites.

While most infected people will have no symptoms, others will develop fever, headaches, and body aches. Some cases require hospitalization and, in rare cases, death occurs.

The district advises people with symptoms to contact their health care provider immediately. Adults over 50 years old and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of serious complications.

The district is working to locate areas of standing water where mosquitoes may breed. Neglected swimming pools, which have been a mosquito breeding issue in the district, can be reported to the district anonymously for treatment at (559) 732-8606.

To protect yourself, the district advises:

• Using an EPA-registered insect repellent when going outside around dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active, and following the instructions on the EPA-registered insect repellent product label;
• Covering up by wearing long-sleeve shirts and long pants when mosquitoes are most active; and
• Checking window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

To protect your home from mosquitoes, the district advises:

• Inspecting your yard for standing water sources and drain water that collects under potted plants, bird baths, tires, and any other water-holding containers;
• Screening the openings of lawn drains;
• Cleaning and scrubbing pet dishes and water features weekly;
• Conducting regular maintenance on swimming pools, ponds, and fountains, and reporting neglected swimming pools anonymously to the district; and
• Contacting the district to request free mosquitofish for backyard ponds, horse troughs, or neglected swimming pools.

All services provided are free of charge to the residents of the district. For more information or to request services, visit www.DeltaMVCD.gov or call (559) 732-8606.