Health Alert

West Nile Virus Surveillance Project

The testing of mosquitoes and sentinel chickens is part of the state's surveillance system for WNV and other mosquito-borne viruses. The program also includes testing of dead birds. WNV may be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. WNV is not spread through person-to-person contact.

Most individuals who are infected with WNV will not experience any illness. Others will experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache and body aches. Less than one percent of individuals will develop a serious illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. Those most at risk include the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

According to Dr. Frank Alvarez, Medical Director of Disease Control and Prevention with the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department, "With WNV now in California, it is particularly important that everyone take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites." The following measures will minimize the risk of mosquito-borne disease:

• Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active, especially at dawn and dusk. Protecting oneself with repellent use during these hours, if outdoors is important.
• When outdoors, wear long pants and long sleeve shirts.
• Apply insect repellent containing the ingredient "DEET" according to label instructions.
• Make sure that doors and windows have tight fitting screens. Repair
  or replace screens that have tears or holes.
• Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property.