BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) – The Butte County Department of Public Health Department (BCPH) announced the first confirmed human West Nile Virus (WNV) infection in Butte County. As of July 30, 2021, one human death and four human WNV infections have been reported in California, not including the Butte County case. WNV is active June through October, with August typically being the peak month in Butte County. BCPH would like to remind residents to protect themselves from WNV by reducing mosquitoes on their property and preventing mosquito bites.

The infected person, who is over 65 years of age, is suffering from severe WNV illness.

WNV is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Residents can reduce the risk of infection by practicing the “Three Ds”:

DEET – Use a proven insect repellent like DEET. Other recommended repellents include: picaradin, lemon eucalyptus oil, para-menthane-diol, IR3535 or 2-undecanone. Always use according to label instructions. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older;

DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes that transmit WNV bite in the early morning and evening. Wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes;

DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate or drain all sources of standing water on your property, including flower pots, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls. For standing water that cannot be drained such as fountains, ponds, etc., consider adding “Mosquito Dunks” or mosquito fish, which feed on mosquito larvae. Report unmaintained swimming pools to the local Mosquito and Vector Control District at (530) 342-7350 or (530) 533-6038.

People infected with WNV generally fall into three categories: no symptoms (8 out of 10 people), a fever illness with fatigue and body aches (1 in 5 people), or severe illness with neurologic symptoms such as encephalitis or meningitis (less than 1 in 150 people). For those who develop a severe WNV illness, symptoms may last several weeks and some symptoms may be permanent. People 50 years of age and older, and individuals with diabetes or hypertension, have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications

For more information about WNV, visit Butte County’s West Nile Virus website.