Last week, the first West Nile Virus illnesses were reported in Southern California, and officials are offering tips on how to avoid getting the disease.

“West Nile is found in birds and mosquitoes and is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that bite infected birds, and then prey on us,” said Patricia Aidem, director of public relations for Providence St. Joseph Health.

Some ways to avoid being bit by mosquitoes include:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET (a chemical that deters insects) when going outdoors; for people with babies or young children, spray insect repellent onto hands and then apply the repellant to the child’s face. However, insect repellent is not recommended for babies younger than 2 months old.   
• Avoid leaving puddles or open containers of water near your house, because mosquitoes breed in standing water. Maintain pools and fountains, and clear puddles that form in dips in concrete.
• Add a safe pesticide such as Mosquito Dunks to neglected swimming pools or other standing water if it has to be left standing for any period of time.
• Avoid being outside during dusk, because that is the time mosquitoes are most active.    

The first cases of West Nile Virus illnesses were reported throughout Los Angeles, Kern and Riverside Counties.

“Most people bitten by mosquitoes do not become ill but a small proportion do, suffering symptoms including fever, headache, rash, muscle weakness, and nausea and vomiting,” Aidem said. “A smaller proportion may develop neurological symptoms such as limb paralysis, tremors and altered mental status.”

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