COVID-19 isn’t the only virus causing a big health concern on the Central and South Coasts. It’s the time of year when the West Nile virus becomes a risk.
Ventura County is reporting the first discovery this year of a bird with the virus. It was found in Simi Valley. West Nile is transmitted by a mosquito bite. But, it can be spread when an infected mosquito bites a bird, and the bird flies to another area, and is bitten again by a mosquito.
So far, no human cases of the West Nile virus have been diagnosed in the region. In most cases, people bitten by an infected mosquito don’t have symptoms. But, older people, or those with preexisting health conditions can have flu-like issues. In rare cases, it can cause serious illness or death.
Public health officials say people should protect themselves. Steps include the use of mosquito repellent, avoiding outdoor activity during dusk and dawn hours when the mosquitoes are out and by eliminating mosquito breeding areas on your property.