Mosquito samples in Orange County positive for West Nile virus

Photo provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a female Aedes aegypti mosquito in the process of acquiring a blood meal from a human host. (James Gathany/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via AP, File)

Officials in Orange County are warning residents after mosquito samples tested positive for the West Nile virus for the first time this year.  

The infected mosquito samples were collected in Huntington Beach, which is historically a high-risk location for West Nile Virus activity, according to a news release by the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District.  

“Conditions across the region are favorable for sustained virus activity during the warm summer months,” said Amber Semrow, OCMVCD Director of Scientific and Technical Services. 

The virus, which can be deadly, is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, which acquires the virus when feeding on infected birds.  

Some symptoms those infected may experience include fever, body aches, rash, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Older individuals and those with existing health issues are most likely to develop severe symptoms. 

Those most susceptible to complications from infection include anyone over 50 years old, people with diabetes, cancer, hypertension, kidney disease, those who are immunocompromised, organ transplant recipients, or anyone with a recent history of chemotherapy. 

In some cases, those with chronic medical conditions could experience severe infections that may affect the brain and spinal cord, causing meningitis, encephalitis, and paralysis. 

So far, there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus disease and no vaccine to prevent infection. 

In Huntington Beach, the infected mosquitos were collected in an area bordered by Newland Street, Adams Avenue, Bushard Street and Atlanta Avenue, the release noted.  

Officials said staff will continue to monitor the area and conduct inspections and implement control measures to prevent additional mosquito breeding. Advisory signs will also be posted in the affected areas.  

“t’s essential that community members do their part to dump and drain standing water,” said OCMVCD Public Information Officer Brian Brannon. “Residents can also protect themselves and their families by using EPA-registered repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and spreading the word to friends and neighbors.” 

To prevent mosquito bites, take action and follow these tips: 

• Dump and drain containers filled with water at least once a week 

• Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly 

• Dump water from potted plant saucers 

• Wear repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus 

• Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space; repair broken or damaged screens 

“At present, Orange County has not reported any human cases of West Nile virus,” the release stated.  

More information on how to prevent an infection of West Nile Virus can be found here.