Mosquitoes Continue to Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Baker County

BAKER CITY – (Release from Baker Valley Vector Control District) More West Nile virus has been found in Baker County. Three pools of mosquitoes tested positive for the virus. Two of the mosquito pools were collected from the Keating Valley area, and one of the mosquito pools came from a trapping site approximately two miles south of North Powder. This brings the total to twenty-one mosquito pools to test positive for the virus this year. The mosquitoes were tested at Oregon State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

Baker County residents are advised to take precautions against mosquitos. West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most infected people will show little or no signs of disease. Consult your health care provider if you have flu-like symptoms. Health care providers can contact the Baker County Health Department for information on West Nile virus testing.

Baker Valley Vector Control District offers these tips for protecting yourself against mosquitoes:

• Eliminate sources of standing water that are a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
• Protect yourself by using mosquito repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or Picardin, and follow the directions on the container.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
• Make sure screen doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly.

Additional information about West Nile virus:

Oregon Health Authority website:

http://public.health.oregon.gov/DiseasesConditions/DiseasesAZ/WestNileVirus/Pages/survey.aspx

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/ index.html

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Elkhorn Media Group