The furst human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Solano County this year has been confirmed. Photo courtesy of iStock

SOLANO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health Division, has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in Solano County this year. The individual is from Dixon and is currently recovering.

As of Nov. 14, the California Department of Public Health reports that there have been 99 human cases of West Nile virus statewide this year. Although mosquito activity typically peaks during the warmer months, residents should continue to stay mindful through the later part of the season.

“While West Nile is rarely life-threatening, it can occasionally be serious, even requiring hospitalization,” said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, deputy health officer for Solano Public Health. “However, unlike flu and COVID, it spreads only by mosquito bites. Preventing mosquito breeding on your property reduces your risk of getting bitten.”

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitos become infected when they feed on infected birds. People can reduce the risk of contracting mosquito-borne illness by following the guidelines below.
Mosquitoes are most active in the early morning and evening. Residents should avoid being outside at these times. If you are outdoors, wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants and use insect repellent.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Residents should eliminate all sources of standing water on their property and drain empty flowerpots, buckets, barrels, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls. If you have an ornamental pond, contact Solano County Mosquito Abatement District at 707-437-1116 for a free mosquito fish.

Insect repellents help keep mosquitoes from biting. Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535 or para-menthane-diol products per the manufacturer's instructions.

Residents should ensure that their doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.
Most people (about four in five) infected with the West Nile virus will not develop any symptoms. About one in five will develop mild flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and swollen lymph glands. However, about one percent (about 1 in 150) of persons with West Nile virus infections will develop severe neurological disease. In rare cases, West Nile virus infection can be fatal.

Anyone can be infected with West Nile virus. People who are 60 years old and older and those with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and those who have received organ transplants, are at greater risk of developing severe illness and complications.

"Solano County Mosquito Abatement District is taking steps to evaluate potential actions with regard to the human case in Dixon. We currently have staff checking sources in the vicinity and are conducting surveillance to identify positive West Nile virus mosquitoes in the area. Depending on our testing results, we will determine further action,” said Solano County Mosquito Abatement District Manager Miguel Cardenas. "The district remains committed to protecting public health and will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available. 

If the public would like to receive notifications from the district, please sign up at https://www.solanomosquito.com/stay-in-touch.”

Residents are encouraged to report dead birds online at WestNile.Ca.Gov or by calling 1-877-968-2473.