A bird infected with West Nile virus has been found in South
Santa Clara County. The bird was discovered late last month in East
San Jose and is the first confirmed case of the virus in this area
and only the second outside Southern California.
A bird infected with West Nile virus has been found in South Santa Clara County. The bird was discovered late last month in East San Jose and is the first confirmed case of the virus in this area and only the second outside Southern California.
Birds are often hosts for the virus that is spread by mosquitos to other animals, including humans but most often horses. West Nile is making its most prevalent appearance in the state yet this summer, mostly in the southern region of the state near Los Angeles.
County health officials said the crow infected with the virus was found in the area of Quimby and White Road and a preliminary test done on June 28 pointed to West Nile. Tests performed by UC Davis’ Center for Vector-borne Diseases confirmed the bird was positive for the virus.
While no mosquitos have tested positive for the virus, local health officials and veterinarians say they have been anticipating West Nile’s arrival in South County and are as prepared as can be expected.
According to Assistant Health Officer Dr. Sara Cody in a statement released by the county Wednesday, the virus won’t be dangerous for the majority of people.
“By protecting yourself against mosquitos and mosquito bites, you can protect yourself against West Nile virus,” Cody said. “It’s important to remember, most people bitten by mosquitos won’t become infected and most healthy people who get infected won’t get sick. Most of those who do become sick only get a fever and rash.”
Although it is fatal in birds, most humans who are infected with the virus will not show symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 20 percent of people infected will develop West Nile fever: mild fever, headache, tiredness, body aches and skin rash.
Rarely, the virus will cause inflammation of the brain or its surrounding membrane – encephalitis or meningitis – causing a high fever and severe headache. There is no specific treatment for the virus, other than supportive care.
Saint Louise Regional Hospital spokeswoman Vivian Smith said people who suspect they are experiencing West Nile symptoms should contact their primary care physician first, but if the hospital does see a case, staff is well prepared.
Mild cases are generally treated with supportive care, like bed rest and fluids.
County health officials are asking residents to alert Vector Control – responsible for keeping mosquitos and West Nile at bay – if they find a dead bird that does not appear to have died from an injury from cats, dogs, cars or other non-natural incidents.
Anyone who is being bothered by a large number of mosquitos or who knows of a potential mosquito breeding source is asked to contact the Vector Control District.
Probably more at risk of West Nile are horses in South County, although there is a vaccine to protect them.
“We’ve been alerting our patients for probably the last three years, ever since it was spreading on the East Coast,” said Veterinarian Bill Seals, who treats horses in and around Gilroy. “The thing is, we’re lucky as veterinarians because we do have a vaccine to prevent this disease.”
Seals’ office, Tri-County Veterinary Hospital in Gilroy, will send out postcards to its clients alerting them of the virus’ arrival and reminding them to vaccinate their animals, he said.
Tim Mulligan, manager of the county’s Vector Control District, released a statement saying the district has fully engaged its staff to address the threat of West Nile, collaborating with other city and government agencies to ensure early detection.
“The district has substantially increased its surveillance and control activities to combat West Nile virus,” Mulligan said.
Vector Control will continue monitoring sentinel bird flocks and mosquito traps every two weeks for more evidence of the virus.
On Wednesday, four more human cases of West Nile virus were reported in Southern California, bringing the total of human cases in the state to 32.
About 26 horses and 950 birds have also been diagnosed in California. Last year, West Nile virus infected nearly 10,000 Americans, killing 264.
Three cases were found in California, although none were fatal.
Call the Santa Clara County’s dead bird hotline number, 877-968-2473, if a bird has been dead for less than 24 hours and was not killed by an injury.
– Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding.
– Avoid spending time outside when mosquitos are most active, especially at dawn and during the first two hours after sunset.
– Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outside.
– Apply insect repellent, such as DEET, according to label instructions.
– Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
