County officials urge preventative measures against West Nile

SAN DIEGO — County Vector Control officials announced last week that five more dead American crows have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in San Diego County, bringing this year’s total to 19 positive birds. The birds were found in Oceanside, Encinitas, Tierrasanta, Ocean Beach and Mira Mesa.

“It is important that people protect themselves from mosquito bites and drain standing water from their property,” said Gary Erbeck, director of the County Department of Environmental Health. “In response to WNV, Vector Control continues to conduct mosquito surveillance throughout the county. Vector Control activities include: showing residents how to eliminate mosquito breeding conditions, educating the public on mosquito prevention techniques and the use of repellants, placing mosquito fish into ponds and green swimming pools and treating areas where mosquitoes are found.”

Prevent mosquito breeding: Backyard water sources are ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Residents should dump or remove anything that can hold water, such as potted plants and saucers, rain gutters, buckets, trash cans, children’s toys, old spare tires and wheelbarrows.

Mosquito fish may be used to control mosquito breeding in backyard water sources such as unused swimming pools, ponds, fountains and horse troughs.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites: You can protect yourself from the virus by staying inside when mosquitoes are most active and by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk.

Use insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus when you are outdoors. Keep screens on doors and windows and make sure the screens are in good condition.

Report mosquito breeding and dead birds: Vector Control staff continues to pick up and test dead crows, ravens, jays, hawks and owls that are reported. Call Vector Control for instructions on how to deal with the bird.

Dead birds do not need to be reported if: they have been dead more than 24 hours; they have been hit by a car, shot or killed by animals; they are covered with ants or flies; they have a foul odor; or their bodies are not intact.

To report dead birds or mosquito breeding areas, such as inoperative swimming pools, or standing water, call County Vector Control at (858) 694-2888.

For more information about West Nile virus, call (888) 551-4636 or visit http://www.SDFightTheBite.com.