First human case of West Nile virus reported in Butte County
BUTTE COUNTY, CALIF. —
The Butte County Public Health agency (BCPH) confirmed this year’s first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) infection in Butte County, making this the seventh reported incident of WNV infections in California. The individual who was exposed to the virus "is over 65 years of age and is experiencing a severe WNV illness."
BCPH reminds residents of Butte County that "WNV is active June through October, with August typically being the peak month". Mosquitos are seen as the primary carrier of the virus.
Those with the infection "fall into three categories":
- Asymptomatic (8 in 10 people)
- Mild to moderate fever illness with fatigue and body aches (1 in 5 people)
- Severe illness with neurologic symptoms such as encephalitis or meningitis (less than 1 in 150 people). For those who develop a severe WNV illness, symptoms may last several weeks and some symptoms may be permanent.
The agency also says that people who are "50 years of age and older, and individuals with diabetes or hypertension, have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications.
To reduce the chance of receiving the virus, BCPH advises that residents in at risk communities, follow a seven step process, being the 7 D's of prevention:
- DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes around your home, especially after it rains or sprinklers water.
- DEFEND yourself against mosquitoes by using an effective insect repellent.
- DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outside unprotected, when mosquitoes are more active.
- DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition and free of holes and tears.
- DRESS appropriately by wearing light-colored long sleeves and loose pants when outdoors.
- DISTRICT personnel are available to address any mosquito problem you may have, to report water that may be breeding mosquitoes, and to answer any questions you may have.
For a visual representation, a map is available to identify where positive cases of WNV have been reported
Residents are also encouraged to report mosquito breeding sites or activity to the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District at 530-533-6038 (for Chico residents) or 530-342-7350 (for Oroville residents).
Any dead birds that may have been deceased for less than 48 hours, suspected of contact with the virus can be reported by calling the California Department of Health's Disease Center at 877-968-2473.
For information about West Nile Virus, including prevention tips and symptoms visit the Butte County Public Health agency page.
