San Bernardino County's first West Nile Virus death confirmed
A San Bernardino County resident who tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) has become the county's first WNV-associated death of 2023. The Office of Public Health said that the victim had underlying health problems.
In 2023, a there have been a total of seven WNV cases detected within the county, almost double total cases from last year, when four WNV cases and one death were confirmed.
"Due to the increased rainfall this year, there has been a surge in mosquito activity this season. Furthermore, the rainfall from the recent tropical storm is likely to exacerbate WNV," said San Bernardino County Health Officer Michael A. Sequeira, M.D. "We urge everyone to take proactive measures to eliminate potential breeding sites around their homes and to protect themselves from mosquito bites."
How Is West Nile Transmitted?
WNV is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Signs and symptoms of WNV may include fever, body aches, rash, nausea, vomiting, and headache.
How Will I Know If I Have West Nile Virus?
According to the San Bernardino Office of Public Health, most people infected with the virus have no symptoms. However, people 50+ years old and those with diabetes, hypertension, who are immunocompromised or have a recent history of chemotherapy have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications.
If you experience a sudden high fever (above 102°F), severe headache, or a stiff neck, seek medical help right away.
Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from mosquito bites during outdoor activities, especially at dawn and dusk.
How Can I Protect Myself?
You can protect yourself from mosquito bites by taking the following precautions:
- DRESS: Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts that are loose fitting and light colored.
- DRAIN: Remove or drain all standing water around your property where mosquitoes lay eggs, including birdbaths, ponds, old tires, buckets, clogged gutters, and puddles from leaky sprinklers.
- DOORS: Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home.
- REPEL: Use insect repellent that has ingredients approved by the EPA such as DEET, IR 3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- REPORT: Report green or neglected pools by calling the San Bernardino County Mosquito and Vector Control Program at (800) 442-2283.
For more information on West Nile virus, to report a standing water source, or to request a courtesy mosquito inspection, San Bernardino County residents can visit the Mosquito and Vector Control Program at ehs.sbcounty.gov/programs/mosquito-and-vector-control or call (800) 442-2283.
