West Nile virus found in Whittier

WHITTIER - A mosquito collected from the city of Whittier has tested positive for West Nile virus, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District announced on Tuesday.Authorities didn't say where exactly the mosquito was taken from but it was in the 90605 zip code. It is the second mosquito to test positive for West Nile virus in Los Angeles County this year. Statewide, there have been 202 reported cases of West Nile virus in mosquitoes. Vector officials said mosquito populations rise as the temperature increases. Mosquitoes breed in standing water. People infected with West Nile virus may experience symptoms that include fever, headache, body aches, nausea or a skin rash. Symptoms can last for several weeks to months. One in 150 people infected with the virus will require hospitalization, and severe symptoms can include coma, paralysis and death. Residents are encouraged to report dead birds in their community to help with West Nile virus control efforts. Reports can be made by calling (877) WNV-BIRD or online at www.westnile.ca.gov.

********** Published: July 22, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 14