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Press Release Date: September 6, 2002 From: Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District Contact person: John Albright, District Biologist Phone: 365-3768 Fax:365-0305 Subject: Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District is prepared for West Nile Virus Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District (SMVCD) officials are saying that the recent case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in the Los Angeles area shows why mosquito control districts and other public health agencies need to be vigilant against the potential introduction of new diseases like WNV into California. The types of mosquitoes that can transmit WNV and other serious diseases already live within the District according to District Biologist, John Albright. New diseases like WNV can suddenly and easily travel into California with tourists or migrating birds that have come from infested areas. Local mosquitoes can then very quickly transmit these diseases to wildlife and humans in California. For this reason SMVCD is part of an integrated statewide surveillance system that monitors mosquito populations and the presence of mosquito-borne disease within the state. Surveillance activities have been increased this year in anticipation of the imminent arrival of WNV. In addition, the District has personnel, equipment and materials to do extra mosquito control work if the presence of WNV or any other mosquito-borne disease makes such action necessary. To test for the possible presence of WNV or the other types of mosquito-borne encephalitis that commonly are found in birds, the District tests the blood of sentinel chicken flocks on a regular basis to detect the presence of virus antibodies. Also the public may report dead birds by calling the State hotline number, 1-(877) WNV-Bird or 1-877-968-2473. In addition, live mosquitoes are trapped within the District and are laboratory-tested for the presence of viruses that may pose a human health threat. Albright states that although mosquito numbers are high for the types of mosquitoes that transmit all types of encephalitis at this time of the year, no WNV or other virus activity has been detected in either birds or mosquitoes in the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District so far this year. The most effective way for people to avoid getting WNV or other mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid getting bit by mosquitoes. It is best to avoid activities around dusk when mosquitoes are most active, to wear long sleeves and pants and put on a mosquito repellent containing DEET when mosquito exposure is likely. People can also reduce their exposure to mosquitoes by eliminating standing water sources around their homes where mosquitoes can breed. Further information can be obtained by calling them at 365-3768 or on the worldwide web at www.snowcrest.net/mosquito . Photo Opportunities: Sentinel chicken flocks (blood sampling September 12), mosquitofish rearing, light traps, lab activities, live mosquito sampling for virus testing, school field trips to the District office on September 20 and 27
For More Information:
(530) 365-3768
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