In a critical public health update, county officials have confirmed the first case of human West Nile virus for the year 2024. A 71-year-old man has been confirmed positive for the virus, representing the county’s first reported case of West Nile virus this year. The individual, who is currently receiving treatment in a hospital, had recently returned from a trip to rural Colorado, where he is believed to have contracted the virus.
Although this case is thought to have originated outside San Diego County, health experts urge caution, as the virus is also present locally, albeit infrequently. Earlier this month, a dead bird found in the Clairemont area of San Diego tested positive for the West Nile virus, signaling its presence in the region. The last reported human case within the county occurred in 2022.
West Nile virus is primarily a disease affecting birds but can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Certain mosquito species first feed on an infected bird or animal, then bite humans, transmitting the virus. It is important to note that while 80% of infected individuals exhibit no symptoms, about 20% may experience fever, headaches, fatigue, nausea, skin rashes, or swollen glands. In rare instances—approximately one in 150 cases—the virus can lead to severe illness and may even be fatal.
Staying Safe: Prevention, Protection, and Reporting Guidelines
To safeguard the health and well-being of the community, the county urges residents to adhere to the “Prevent, Protect, and Report” guidelines designed to reduce mosquito populations and minimize exposure to mosquito-borne illnesses. These recommendations are crucial not only for preventing West Nile virus but also for avoiding other diseases, such as Zika, dengue, and chikungunya, transmitted by invasive mosquito species like Aedes.
Prevent Mosquito Breeding:
Mosquitoes need stagnant water to breed, so removing potential water sources is key. Remove all sources of standing water both indoors and outdoors. This includes areas such as plant saucers, rain gutters, buckets, toys, old tires, and wheelbarrows. For backyard water features, such as unused pools, fountains, or horse troughs, mosquito fish can be used to control breeding. These fish are available free of charge through the county’s Vector Control Program.
Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites:
When spending time outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wearing long sleeves and pants is highly recommended. Additionally, applying insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 provides further protection. Ensure that window and door screens are intact to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.
Report Potential Mosquito Breeding Sites and Dead Birds:
The community plays a vital role in helping to control mosquito populations. Residents are encouraged to report any increased mosquito activity, green swimming pools, or other potential mosquito breeding sites to the county’s Environmental Health Vector Control Program. Additionally, dead birds—particularly crows, ravens, jays, hawks, and owls—should be reported, as they are indicators of the virus’s presence. Reports can be made by calling (858) 694-2888 or by emailing vector@sdcounty.ca.gov.
Community Action: Why This Matters
Your active participation in these preventive measures is more than just a safeguard for yourself—it helps protect your family, neighbors, and the entire community. Mosquito-borne diseases can spread quickly, but through collaborative efforts, we can significantly reduce the risk. The county remains committed to protecting public health, but the success of this mission also depends on the vigilance of its residents.
For those interested in learning more about how they can help combat mosquito-borne illnesses, San Diego County offers a wealth of resources, including the “Fight the Bite” website, which provides detailed information about current public health efforts and ways you can get involved.
Get Involved, Stay Informed
Preventing West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses requires a community-wide effort. By following the guidelines to “Prevent, Protect, and Report,” you’re contributing to the health and safety of everyone in the county. Stay informed, take action, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can mitigate the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses and ensure a safer, healthier future for all.
For additional details, please visit the “Fight the Bite” website and make sure you’re up to date on the latest public health recommendations.
Stay safe. Stay informed. Take action. Let’s “Fight the Bite” together!