Deadly virus now spreads to crows in San Diego - as officials issue warning
Yahoo • • health
Key Points:
- West Nile virus has been detected in two dead crows in Southern California's San Diego County, following its recent discovery in a mosquito, marking early signs of the virus's activity this year.
- No human cases have been reported so far, but the virus primarily affects birds and can be transmitted to people through mosquito bites.
- Symptoms in humans can range from none to mild (headaches, fever, nausea) and, in rare cases, severe illness or death; the virus has caused over 3,300 deaths and infected more than 63,000 people in the U.S. since 1999.
- San Diego County officials urge residents to prevent mosquito breeding by removing standing water, use protective clothing and insect repellent, and report mosquito issues or dead birds.
- Mosquitoes can also transmit other diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika, emphasizing the importance of mosquito control and personal protection measures.