West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes found in Orange County

Titi Mary Tran/ Nguoi Viet English

Mosquitoes infected with the West Nile virus have been found in Garden Grove, Calif.

The mosquitoes were found at West Street Basin, at the corner of West Street and Chapman Avenue, in a collection taken there on July 7, according to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD).

“We have set up about 100 mosquito traps in Orange County, and every week, we collect the samples and test them,” said Laura Krueger, an official with the agency.

“The mosquito flight range is about 1 kilometer (.621 mile), and the area around the basin is positive,” she added.

The West Nile virus can be transmitted to humans from a bite of mosquitoes that carry the virus, which is transferred from infected birds. Pet birds also are susceptible to the virus.

Krueger encouraged residents to call the agency if they find dead birds in the area. The agency can be reached at 714-971-2421. There is no charge for OCMVCD to investigate the area.

The first Orange County resident to be infected with the virus this year has been identified as a Laguna Beach woman. Symptoms of West Nile virus in humans include high fever, headaches, body aches, nausea and exhaustion. Severe cases could lead to paralysis and even death.

Both city of Garden Grove and OCMVCD officials encourage residents to prevent infection by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, using insect repellents, and limiting outdoor activities at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. They also should empty all standing water. Parents should be vigilant and avoid walking outside at night with newborns, as well.