First human case of West Nile virus detected in Kings County

“West Nile virus can have severe consequences for the elderly or others, including those that have pre-existing health conditions,” said Rose Mary Rahn, Director of the KCDPH. “It is important that anyone experiencing related symptoms seek medical attention and that residents take all precautions including wearing insect repellent and eliminating sources of standing water.”

Most people who are infected with WNV have no symptoms or only mild non-specific flu-like illness. However, in some individuals, especially the elderly, the disease can cause severe neurologic illness. Symptoms of severe disease include fever, headache, stiff neck, rash, joint pain, disorientation, and altered level of consciousness.

Residents can contact the Kings Mosquito Abatement District (KMAD) if they have a mosquito problem, report a neglected swimming pool (green pool), or if they need assistance in eliminating mosquito breeding sources. The district will also provide mosquito fish for swimming pools, backyard ponds, and horse troughs free of charge. To contact the district, please call (559) 584-3326. Residents may also request services through their website at www.kingsmosquito.net.

Kings County Department of Public Health (KCDPH) recommends that individuals protect against mosquito bites by practicing the “Three Ds”:

1. DEET – Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, or Insect Repellent 3535 (IR3535) according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitos from biting you. Insect repellents should be used according to label instructions for children.
2. DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitos usually bite in the early morning and evening, so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitos. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
3. DRAIN – Mosquitos lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property by emptying flower pots, old car tires, buckets, and other containers. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, please contact your local mosquito and vector control agency.
4. 4.       Additional information regarding the West Nile virus may be found at: https://westnile.ca.gov/