No doubt you’ve heard about the West Nile Virus. Its deadly
effect has been seen across the country since it first appeared in
about 1999.
No doubt you’ve heard about the West Nile Virus. Its deadly effect has been seen across the country since it first appeared in about 1999.
Last year, there were more than 4,000 cases reported to the Center for Disease Control. Of those, the CDC reported 284 human deaths, all attributed to West Nile.
West Nile Virus has moved its way from the East Coast, where it was first seen in the United States, through the Midwest and to the Pacific. And experts tell us that this infectious disease could potentially be a big problem in California in 2003.
The West Nile Virus affects people, horses, many types of birds and occasionally other animals. It is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Many of those infected never even realize they carry the disease. These individuals recover from infection with no symptoms or side effects.
But in people and horses, a more serious encephalitis (a brain and central nervous system infection) can sometimes develop. This form of the disease is often fatal.
Dogs and cats seem to be less susceptible to serious infection. The virus doesn’t seem to survive well in the body of these household pets. That’s the good news. The bad news is that West Nile is very contagious to pet owners themselves.
So what can we do to protect ourselves against this deadly disease? How can we minimize our risk?
First, eliminate (as much as possible) any breeding habitat for mosquitoes. These flying insects are back, thriving in the warm weather of spring. So it is important to clear any standing water on your property. If your have watering troughs for livestock, change the water frequently. Avoiding exposure to these insects is imperative, since they are the only vector. If you enjoy outdoor activities, use mosquito repellent. Wear a long sleeve shirt and long pants. Don’t give a mosquito a chance to bite.
A vaccine for equine is available, so if you have horses, ponies or burros, have them vaccinated immediately. Vaccine prophylaxis requires that two shots be given three weeks apart. And a horse won’t have adequate protection until at least a week after the second injection is given.
There is no vaccine for household pets because of their inherent resistance to the disease. Current studies are focused on developing a vaccine for humans but as yet, none is available.
Finally, be observant. Remember that some birds are very susceptible to West Nile. Crows, jays and magpies, as well sparrows are potential victims of this disease. If you see dead birds in your neighborhood, report this to the proper authorities. The State of California has set up a phone hotline to report dead birds. You can call this number, toll free, at 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473).
We’ll keep you up-to-date over the coming months on any news about West Nile Virus as it happens. Meanwhile, be safe and be on the lookout.
