Two Human Cases Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Baker County

By Garrett Christensen on Thursday, October 13th, 2022 in Featured Stories Northeastern Oregon News

BAKER CITY – (Release from the Baker Valley Vector Control District) Two human cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed in Baker County. Over the past few months, a total of twenty-one mosquito pools have tested 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.htm