West Nile found in county
From our weekly issue dated September 3, 2008
Steller's Jay - Shaver Lake, California (Photo courtesy of calliebowdish.com)
Josephine County Public Health Dept. was notified that a bird identified as a Jay collected on Sunday, Aug. 17 in the Grants Pass area (ZIP code 97526) tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV): the first positive bird found in Josephine County this year.
West Nile activity also has been noted in mosquito pools in Baker, Umatilla and Jackson counties, and in three humans in Malheur County. Josephine County had no positive West Nile activity in 2007, while a majority of other counties had “positive activity.”
“This is a reminder to avoid mosquito bites, especially as outside activities increase,” said Belle Shepherd, Public Health director. West Nile virus is spread to humans through bites of infected mosquitoes. Birds are the principal carriers of the virus. Infected birds are bitten by mosquitoes, which carry the virus to people.
Most infections are mild, with fever and flu-like symptoms, but severe infections cause inflammation of the brain and rarely, death. Individuals who develop fever along with headache, stiff neck, or confusion, are encouraged to see their medical-care provider. Horses also are at risk for WNV, but can be vaccinated. Horse owners are encouraged to contact their veterinarian.
To prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, Josephine County Public Health recommends:
*Keeping screen doors and windows tightly closed. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
*Wear long pants, long-sleeve shirts and other protective clothing when outside.
*Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding such as gutters, birdbaths and tires.
*Avoid playing or working outside at dawn and dusk.
*Use mosquito repellent, preferably one that contains DEET, Picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Josephine County Public Health will continue testing birds that may have WNV. For information about testing birds, phone 474-5325.
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