Title: First West Nile Virus-Related Death Reported in Placer County, California
Lincoln, Placer County – A Lincoln man has tragically succumbed to the West Nile virus, marking the first death related to the virus in the county since 2018. The elderly victim, aged over 65, was at a higher risk for developing complications, as health officials have warned.
Although the overall risk from West Nile remains low, individuals aged 50 and older have a higher likelihood of falling sick and experiencing more severe symptoms. Fortunately, less than 1% of people infected with the virus develop serious neurological illnesses.
According to recent statistics, California has witnessed an alarming increase in West Nile virus cases this year, with 286 confirmed human infections and 10 deaths. In Placer County alone, at least six human cases have been reported so far. Even more concerning is the significant rise in the number of mosquitos testing positive for the virus, along with an increase in dead bird samples containing the West Nile virus.
To combat the spread of the virus and protect public health, health officials are urging residents to follow the “three Ds” guideline as a preventive measure. The first “D” stands for using insect repellent, with options such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Applying these repellents can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
The second “D” advises individuals to wear long clothing during dawn and dusk, when mosquitos are most active. By covering exposed skin, people can avoid mosquito bites and subsequent infections.
The third component of the guideline promotes draining standing water on properties, as mosquitos use stagnant water as breeding grounds. Removing any sources of standing water, such as old tires or flower pots, greatly diminishes the mosquitos’ ability to multiply and spread the West Nile virus.
Local authorities emphasize the urgent need for everyone to take these precautions seriously, particularly during the ongoing mosquito season. By adopting these simple measures, individuals can reduce their risk of contracting the West Nile virus and contribute to the overall protection of public health.
“Swerd Media” will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updated information as it becomes available, ensuring the community remains informed about the latest developments and preventive measures against the West Nile virus.
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