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May 30, 2007

West Nile Virus Remains a Threat

The Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA) in Downey has been fielding many calls from concerned area residents about the West Nile virus and what to do with dead birds and now, tree squirrels. "There is no need to be alarmed, but diligence is necessary," said Dan Morrison, executive director for SEAACA. "Eliminating standing water on our properties, using an approved mosquito repellant when outdoors and properly maintaining our pools and ponds will decrease the presence of mosquitoes, who are the primary transmitters of West Nile Virus (WNV)", stated Morrison.

Wild birds like the American Crow, ravens, jays and magpies are the animals from which mosquitoes primarily acquire the (West Nile) virus. WNV can cause serious illness and death in these animals. Dead bird and dead tree squirrel sightings in the neighborhood should be reported immediately to SEAACA at (562) 803-3301. Testing the carcasses must be done in a timely manner, so residents are asked to report them right away. "We are working cooperatively with the California Department of Health Services to have selected bird and tree squirrel carcasses tested for West Nile Virus," said Morrison. "Our local vector control is also working diligently in the community responding to citizen’s concerns about mosquitoes in their neighborhoods," exclaimed Morrison.

There are several things that can be helpful in protecting our families against West Nile Virus:

·  Apply a Mosquito Repellant with DEET to skin even when outdoors for a short period of time. Refrain from putting clothing on over skin sprayed with repellant containing DEET.

·  Wear long sleeves and long pants when possible while outdoors.

·  Early morning and evening hours are mosquitoes’ peak hours. Take extra care particularly during these hours.

·  Get rid of standing water. Keep water in ponds and pools circulating. Stagnant and still water is ideal for the mosquito looking to lay eggs.

·  Treat pools and Jacuzzis with the necessary chemicals to keep water clean.

·  Install and/or repair screens on doors and windows.

·  Report mosquito breeding sites within the neighborhood to your local vector control agency. Arrange to coordinate volunteers to tidy up the neighborhood and pick up trash and containers.

It is expected that more bird and tree squirrel carcasses will turn up positive for the West Nile virus in SEAACA’s jurisdiction and throughout the county in the future. It is also important to note that not all mosquitoes carry the virus, nor are all the dead birds and tree squirrels found in the area carrying the virus. "It just seems as though the more we become aware of this, the more we notice these deceased animals on our streets and in our yards," Morrison said. "Like the old adage goes … an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."