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closeSaturday, Jul. 05, 2008
Remember West Nile virus safety this summer
SACRAMENTO -- With the Fourth of July weekend just passing and families and friends gathering outdoors, the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California is encouraging everyone to take precautions against West Nile virus.
"Individuals should enjoy the outdoors, but use personal safety precautions to prevent the spread of West Nile virus and other diseases," said Dr. Mark Horton, director of the California Department of Public Health.
"Wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent and eliminating standing water are just a few prevention measures."
As of June 27 this year, West Nile virus activity has been detected in 19 of California's 58 counties, according to the California Department of Public Health.
On June 20, a Tulare County woman tested positive for West Nile virus infection, the first reported human case in California this year.
In 2007, West Nile virus resulted in 16 deaths in California and sickened more than 379 others.
