San Andreas, Ca — The Calaveras County Public Health Department says two birds in the County have tested positive for the West Nile Virus.
One was found in the area of Railroad Flat, and the other was in the community of Copperopolis.
“Numerous California counties are reporting a sudden increase in West Nile Virus activity,” says Calaveras County Health Officer Dr. Dean Kelaita. “Most persons who are infected with the virus will not develop any symptoms, however, some people become sick and debilitated with symptoms of high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness and disorientation.”
West Nile is sread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Thus far, there have been no reported cases of humans or horses infected with the virus.
“The Calaveras County Environmental Management Agency´s Mosquito and Vector Control program has been, and will continue aggressive trapping and testing of mosquitoes for West Nile Virus throughout the County,” says Brian Moss, Administrator of the Calaveras County Environmental Management Agency. “Areas of Calaveras County with high mosquito populations and/or the presence of West Nile Virus will be targeted for adult mosquito spraying.”
Spraying will occur in conjunction with ongoing site inspections, source reductions, mosquito fish distribution and public education.
The neighboring counties of Tuolumne and Stanislaus have also reported West Nile positive birds.
Written by BJ Hansen
This post was last modified on 01/31/2009 1:49 pm