The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control identified West Nile Virus in a dead American Crow recovered in Davis Tuesday, according to vector control. It is the first hint of West Nile Virus activity in the Sacramento area this year.
"Finding the first positive bird is always significant because it provides an early warning sign for the disease," said District Manager Gary Goodman, Sacramento Bee reported.
He added that the reported incident confirmed that the virus is already present in the area and provides a good indication of where they may find positive mosquito samples and where human cases may develop.
The bird, an American crow, was discovered in Davis and is the state's second West Nile-positive bird this year. According to the westnile.ca.gov website, West Nile activity has been verified in mosquito samples in Contra Costa, Fresno, Kern, Orange, and Riverside counties.
On May 17, Contra Costa officials announced the first statewide dead bird with the virus, which officials discovered in a Brentwood neighborhood near Discovery Bay.
NORTHAMPTON, NH - JUNE 9: Entomologist Betsy Coes identifies mosquito species at Dragon Mosquito Control June 9, 2005 in Northampton, New Hampshire. As the wet spring weather moves into the heat of summer, experts expect a mosquito explosion, some of which carry the West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Last year EEE killed three people in the state of Massachusetts.
How District Will Handle WNV Transmission
While mosquitos are the most prevalent vectors for WNV transmission, ABC10 reported that some birds, such as crows, jays, and magpies, can also carry and spread the virus.
ABC10, citing Sacramento-Yolo County Vector Control, added that other places around the country have begun reporting cases of WNV in birds and insects.
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Now that the first case in the district has been confirmed, officials are attempting to boost mosquito traps and monitoring. They also ask the public to report dead birds in the region to evaluate transmission rates better.
Sacramento-Yolo County Vector Control suggests implementing its "District D's of Mosquito Prevention" in response to the current outbreak, which includes:
- DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors;
- DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent. Make sure to follow label directions;
- DISTRICT personnel are made available to manage any mosquito-related issues;
- DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.
- DRAIN standing (or stagnant) water that may produce mosquitoes;
- DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.
Symptoms of West Nile Virus When It Infects Humans
The majority of those infected with West Nile virus (8 out of 10) do not experience any symptoms, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentioned.
Even yet, about 1 in 5 infected persons get a fever and additional symptoms including headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
According to Doctor NDTV, infected mosquitoes transfer the West Nile Virus to people. The virus enters the circulation of the mosquito after it bites an infected bird or mammal.
The virus rarely spreads through blood transfusions, nursing, or organ transplants. It is not a contagious disease that may be shared by touching or being near an affected person.
A high temperature or a red splotchy rash all over your skin might be the initial signs of the infection. Other symptoms include body pains and headaches.
Consult a doctor immediately if the patient exhibits significant brain-related issues. After collecting a blood sample, a professional diagnosis is offered.
The number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood or spinal fluid is measured. A rise in the number of white blood cells shows that the virus has spread.
MRI scans, also known as brain imaging, are used to assess the degree of brain inflammation and search for any swelling.
There is presently no vaccine or treatment for this virus. Medications such as paracetamol or aspirin might be used to control and improve the symptoms.
The first line of defense is pain relievers and fever medications from your local drugstore. If the symptoms are severe and the brain is infected, go to the nearest hospital.
Regular monitoring is recommended with intravenous medicines and water aid recovery.
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