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West Nile virus cases in San Diego county hit 10-year high - how to protect yourself
cbs8.com • • health
Key Points:
- San Diego County has reported 11 West Nile virus cases this year, the highest in a decade, contrasting with zero cases last year.
- County officials are conducting mosquito control measures, including spraying in high-risk areas like Coronado, with multiple operations planned to curb the outbreak.
- West Nile virus spreads from infected birds to humans via mosquitoes; while most infected individuals show no symptoms, some experience flu-like symptoms, and severe cases can be fatal.
- Public health experts stress there is no vaccine or treatment for West Nile virus, urging residents to prevent mosquito bites by eliminating standing water, using repellents, and wearing protective clothing.
- The risk of West Nile virus may increase due to a forecasted El Niño, which could create more mosquito breeding sites and extend the transmission season beyond the usual June to October period.
