Symptoms
Approximately 80% of people infected with WNV do not exhibit symptoms. Some 20% or 1 in 5 infected persons may develop West Nile Fever, with symptoms such as high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Other WNV symptoms include stiff neck, stupor, disorientation, coma, muscle weakness, and paralysis.
The elderly and immune-compromised individuals, i.e., those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or hypertension, are at greatest risk for serious illness.
Prevention
People can decrease their risk of infection by following these recommendations:
Check for and remove all sources of standing water.
Change the water in wading pools, birdbaths and pet bowls twice weekly.
Place mosquito-eating fish in ornamental ponds and water gardens.
Make sure that doors and windows have tight fitting screens.
Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
Avoid mosquito-infested areas at dawn and dusk.
Where it is necessary to be outdoors during these times, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and other protective clothing.
Use repellants containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, according to label instructions.
California’s WNV Web site – www.westnile.ca.gov – has the latest information on WNV activity in the state. In order to help identify WNV activity, Californians are encouraged to report all dead birds and dead tree squirrels on the Web site or call toll-free 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473). Local information is also available at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.
Where to call with questions about mosquitoes:
Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District: (562) 944-9656
Los Angeles County West Vector Control District: (310) 915-7370
San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District: (626) 814-9466
Antelope Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District: (661) 942-2917
Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District: (310) 639-7375
Pasadena Public Health Department: (626) 744-6004
City of Long Beach Vector Control Program: (562) 570-4132
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