With the warmer than average temperatures, Umatilla County Health officials are warning the public of potentially increased West Nile virus activity in the region.
Currently Umatilla County has had no reports of the virus but it has recently been detected in mosquitoes by the Benton County Mosquito Control District to the north of Umatilla County. The West Umatilla Mosquito Control District is routinely trapping and testing mosquitoes as well as treating areas where mosquitoes are found.
“Mosquito populations are about average at this point but activity due to the heat is increased,” said West Umatilla Mosquito Control District Manager Randy Gerard. “Also, the mosquito populations are likely to increase significantly because of the hot weather. Because of increased mosquito activity due to heat, we are urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”
Melissa Ney of the Umatilla County Public Health Department says some people are at higher risk for West Nile virus than others.
“The risk of West Nile virus is low, but people over 50 years of age and those with high blood pressure, diabetes or any immune compromising conditions are at higher risk of contracting West Nile virus,” she said. Ney advised that “most people who become infected do not become ill. Some may develop mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and occasionally swollen lymph glands or a rash. In rare cases West Nile may cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. Individuals with severe or unusual headaches should seek medical care as soon as possible.”
Both Gerard and Ney want to encourage people to not become complacent when dealing with mosquitoes. They offered the following suggestions to reduce the risk of exposure to West Nile virus:
• Get rid of old tires and other containers where water can accumulate and serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
• Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when in mosquito infested areas.
• Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, making sure to follow the label directions on the container.
• Be sure screen doors and windows are in good repair.
“West Nile is primarily a bird disease, and crows, magpies, and jays are especially susceptible,” Gerard said. “Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on an infected bird and can pass the virus to humans, horses or other hosts when they bite.”
Gerard encourages individuals who live within the West Umatilla Mosquito Control District to call the district office to report mosquito problems and dead bird sightings. He also urges residents to help the mosquito control district by making sure your yard is not a mosquito breeding environment.
Because horses are also at risk for West Nile, health officials encourage horse owners to check with their veterinarians for vaccination. Veterinarians can arrange for free testing of samples from horses suspected of infection with West Nile virus.
Go online for more information on West Nile virus.
