First West Nile Virus Case Detected in Kings County

The first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) of the year has been detected in Kings County. The Kings County Department of Public Health (KCDPH) reported the case to the California Department of Public Health on July 14 and it is the first case reported this season in the state.

“West Nile Virus can have severe consequences for the elderly or others, including those that have pre-existing health conditions” said Rose Mary Rahn, director of the KCDPH. “It is important that anyone experiencing related symptoms seek medical attention and that residents take all precautions including wearing insect repellent and eliminating sources of standing water.”

Most people who are infected with WNV have no symptoms or only mild non-specific flu-like illness. However, in some individuals, especially the elderly, the disease can cause severe neurologic illness. Symptoms of severe disease include fever, headache, stiff neck, rash, joint pain, disorientation and altered level of consciousness.

Residents can contact the Kings Mosquito Abatement District if they have a mosquito problem, report a neglected swimming pool (green pool), or if they need assistance in eliminating mosquito breeding sources. The district will also provide mosquito fish for swimming pools, back yard ponds, and horse troughs free of charge.

To contact the district, call (559) 584-3326. Residents may also request services at http://www.kingsmosquito.net.

Additional information regarding West Nile Virus may be found at: https://westnile.ca.gov.