06 July, 2005 17:54 GMT
For the first time this year in Long Beach, Calif., West Nile Virus has been detected in a dead crow, found in a neighborhood close to Cal State-Long Beach, city officials said.
West Nile Virus, often carried by birds, can be passed on to humans through infected mosquitoes.
According to the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the infected bird was discovered in the 90815 zip code, in a neighborhood adjacent to CSULB, in late May.
Human Infection Rare
It is rare for humans, even after being bitten by an infected mosquito, to be affected by the virus. West Nile Virus usually is only dangerous to the immune suppressed, Dr. Darryl Sexton, a Long Beach City Health Officer said.
The virus generally results in fever, fatigue and other flu-like symptoms that can easily be treated. However, in the worst cases, it can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
Once the bird population has been envenomed with West Nile Virus, the presence of the virus will be permanent, Sexton said.
Mosquito-Breeding Season
The disease is most likely to pop up in the population during the mosquito-breeding season, spanning from April to November.
Although most of the population is at low risk for contracting the disease, Public Health Officials offer these tips on how to avoid infection:
Eliminate or remove sources of stagnant water, which serve as breeding grounds, such as buckets, kids' toys, or backed-up gutters.
Only water the lawn and outdoor plants twice a week.
Avoid outdoor activity at dusk or dawn, the times of day when mosquitoes are most active.
When outside, wear mosquito repellant that has a concentration of 10-30 percent DEET. The level of concentration determines the length of time the repellent provides protection.
Report Dead Birds
Report dead birds in your community by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD. If the bird has not been picked up within 24 hours, the California Department of Health Services (DHS) advises residents dispose of the bird, handling it with a shovel or plastic bag.
For more information on West Nile Virus and preventative measures to avoid infection, call the DHHS Vector Control Program at (562) 570-4132 or www.longbeach.gov/health. Information is also available at the DHS Web site, www.westnile.ca.gov.
-- By Elena Encarnacion
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