Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Politics : Mainstream Politics and Economics -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: longnshort who wrote (21226)	7/30/2012 11:40:42 AM
From: Wharf Rat	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 85487

West Nile Virus increases in California Ukiah Daily Journal Staff ukiahdailyjournal.com Updated: 07/24/2012 08:53:43 AM PDT Ukiah Daily Journal Warm, summer weather has increased reports of West Nile virus in mosquitoes, birds and humans statewide, according to the Mendocino County Health and Human Services. The state has confirmed five human cases of the virus in June and July, including two in Kern County and one case in each of the counties of Stanislaus, Merced and Fresno. To date in 2012, West Nile virus has been found in 20 counties through testing of dead birds, mosquitoes, horses, sentinel chickens and humans. There have been no confirmed reports of West Nile virus in Mendocino County this year, according to the Mendocino County HHSA. West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of serious illness to most people is low. However, some individuals less than 1 percent can develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis, according to the HHSA. People who are at least 50 years old and young children have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications, according to the HHSA. Recent data also indicates that those with diabetes and/or hypertension are at greatest risk for serious illness. The California Department of Public Health recommends practicing the "three Ds" to prevent exposure to mosquito bites and West Nile virus: 1. DEET Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older. When using any insect repellent on children please follow directions precisely. 2. Dawn and dusk Mosquitoes bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes. 3. Drain Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including flower pots, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, contact Mendocino County Environmental Health at 463-4466. California's West Nile website, www.westnile.ca.gov, includes a virus activity map and the latest information on West Nile virus in the state. Residents are encouraged to report all dead birds and dead tree squirrels on the website or by calling toll-free, 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473). For local information, contact Mendocino County Environmental Health at 463-4466 ukiahdailyjournal.com