Three new batches of mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus, a bad sign for the year to come, according to San Diego County health officials.
The latest sampling was taken in and around Jamacha, near its border with Lemon Grove. Because many dead birds with West Nile were also found in the area, county vector control employees have placed mosquito traps there to try to stop the virus’ spread.
Since the beginning of the year, vector control inspectors have picked up six infected batches of mosquitoes – the same amount collected for the whole of 2014.
The rise in mosquitoes with West Nile accompanies a May spike in the number of infected dead birds, which continues to grow.
“Mosquitoes are the main way people get exposed to West Nile virus,” said Department of Environmental Health Director Elizabeth Pozzebon in a statement, “so remember to get rid of standing water around your homes so mosquitoes can’t breed, wear insect repellent and report dead birds.”
In May, the number of dead infected birds through the county jumped from five to 29, according to county officials. Now, the total is 33 – the largest found in any California county this year. Last year, San Diego County did not reach 33 dead birds until November.
So far, there have been no reported cases of West Nile in humans. Last year, 11 people in San Diego were diagnosed with the virus, which is the largest number since 2009. Two people were killed by the illness.
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The county recommends doing three things when you want to avoid West Nile: Prevent, protect and report.
Officials say you should prevent mosquito breeding by dumping out anything around your home that can hold water. If you have ponds, the county offers free mosquito fish to help get rid of the pests.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. You could also wear long sleeves and pants, and make sure your doors and windows are secure enough to keep the insects out.
Finally, report any dead birds or green swimming pools you see to the vector control program by calling 858-694-2888, emailing vector@sdcounty.ca.gov or downloading the county’s app “Fight the Bite.”
