Public health officials are reminding the community to protect themselves from mosquito bites and to clear mosquito breeding sources from their property
(EUGENE, Ore. ) - Lane County Environmental Health confirmed a case of West Nile Virus in Lane County.
A bird collected from Springfield on Monday, Aug. 6th tested positive for the virus.
This is an indicator that the virus is in the metro area and probably in other parts of the county.
Public health officials are reminding the community to protect themselves from mosquito bites and to clear mosquito breeding sources from their property.
"It’s important that people know this is out there and take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites," said Tamara Wilhite, Environmental Health specialist.
Lane County Environmental Health began its annual mosquito testing for the West Nile virus in July.
The mosquito-borne virus first reached the United States in 1999 and began its march westward, reaching Oregon in 2004.
Lane County has been testing mosquitoes for the virus since 2004.
The Oregon Department of Human Services reported 73 human cases of West Nile virus in Oregon last year.
Last year in the U.S., there were 4,269 WNv cases as reported by the CDC, and 177 deaths. In comparison, flu-related deaths are more than 20,000 every year in this country.
The first positive test of this season was found in a bird in Multnomah County.
Lane County found one bird infected with the virus near the Santa Clara area of Eugene in 2006.
Public Health officials agree that continuing surveillance efforts and taking steps toward prevention are vital in preventing human infections.
PREVENTION TIPS
1. Look around your home and property and eliminate sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding, for example gutters, birdbaths and old tires.
2. Because mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, avoid playing or working outside at these times or wear long pants, long sleeve shirts and other protective clothing.
3. Wear an effective insect repellant. So far, DEET has been found to work the best. Follow label directions when using any repellant. But, do not apply DEET to children younger than two.
4. Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes. Don’t leave doors open without a screen.
West Nile Virus Case Confirmed in Lane CountySalem-News.com