West Nile Fears Fanned: Two More Dead Birds Retrieved In Visalia Environs

A Western Scrub Jay picked up near Avenue 320 just north of Visalia on July 25 and an American Crow picked up July 30 near Walnut Avenue in south Visalia have both tested positive for the West Nile virus, Delta Vector Control District biologist Yolanda Lourenco reported Wednesday.

Earlier, on July, a dead Northern Mockingbird had also tested positive for West Nile virus. These findings are causing concern because the virus can be spread through mosquitoes who had earlier fed on an infected bird.

The West Nile virus can also be spread through blood transfusion. It is a fast-spreading contagious disease, being closely monitored by the California Department of Health. The Department said that 566 dead bird samples and 316 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile, so far.

70% of the victims have contracted the more serious neurological form of the disease, called West Nile neuro invasive disease, according to officials.

This year, the risk of human infection is nearly five times higher than in previous years. In 2004, Southern California experienced 710 human West Nile virus cases and 21 people died. Current statistics show that, 12 people have been infected in Los Angeles County, nine in Orange County, and two in San Diego County so far this year.

Although hardly noticeable in the initial stages, the West Nile virus goes on to produce symptoms akin to flu, including fever, headache, body aches, skin rashes, and swollen glands. People who get these symptoms should immediately see their doctor. The final stage can lead to loss of consciousness, meningitis, or even death.

The elderly are more vulnerable to the virus and are more likely to develop serious symptoms when infected. Recent data also warned that those with diabetes and/or hypertension were at highest risk for a serious form of the illness.

“We’re seeing a trend almost two times higher than we’ve seen in the past years, and every bit as high and in some cases higher than 2004,” Robert Cummings, director of scientific services for Orange County Vector Control, said.

As the most dangerous period of the year for infections approaches, officials are gearing up to counter a possible outbreak between August and October.

A full scale campaign against the West Nile Virus will begin in mid-August, when the West Nile season reaches its high point. County agencies are also launching a region-wide radio campaign in a few weeks to warn about West Nile virus and advise people on preventing mosquito bites.