San Bernardino County has their first cases of West Nile virus this year
The cities of San Bernardino and Rialto have announced their first cases of West Nile virus today via their Departments of Public Health.
San Bernardino County Health Officer Michael Sequeira, M.D., explains that the virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.
"West Nile Virus can cause serious illness in humans. Therefore, I urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites," Sequeira said.
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Symptoms of the West Nile virus may include fever, body aches, rashes, nausea, headaches, and vomiting. However, most people infected with the virus show no symptoms.
People over the age of 50 are most at risk.
The risk of infection increases largely from the summer to early fall. To prevent infections, the Department of Public Health suggests protecting yourself from outdoor activities mostly during dawn or dusk.
Other tips include wearing light and loose clothing that covers up skin exposure, draining standing water around or inside your house where mosquitoes lay eggs, making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens, and using insect repellent when needed.
San Bernardino County also recommends reporting green or neglected pools by calling the County's Mosquito and Vector Control Program at (800) 442-2283 and pressing 3 when prompted.
For more information on the West Nile virus, residents can find more information by visiting ehs.sbcounty.gov/programs/mosquito-and-vector-control or call (800) 442-2283.
