One Mosquito Pool and a horse Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Baker County

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Monday, September 20th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News Eastern/Southeast Oregon Top Stories

BAKER COUNTY – (Release from Baker Valley Vector Control) West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes from a Baker Valley Vector Control District testing site in the Keating Valley area. Mosquitoes were tested at Oregon State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Additionally, one horse has tested positive for the virus in Baker County.

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.htm