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West Nile case is Marin County’s first of 2015

Posted on September 15, 2015 by Sonoma Valley Sun

A 57-year-old Novato man is the first human West Nile virus case confirmed from Marin County for 2015, according to Marin County Health and Human Services.

Public Health officials said the man is recovering at home from the mosquito-borne illness.

It is unclear whether or not the man contracted the virus locally because of recent travel outside of the county. People 50 years of age and older have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop complications. Studies also indicate that those with diabetes and/or hypertension are at greatest risk for serious illness.

As a part of the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District’s (MSMVCD) Integrated Vector Management program, mosquito populations are closely monitored with control strategies implemented as necessary. Additional surveillance methods are being employed in the in the vicinity of the Novato resident’s home. MSMVCD officials are asking that residents report mosquito problems to the district immediately.

“West Nile Virus is endemic in Marin County, recurring every year during the summer and into the fall,” said Dr. Matt Willis, County Health Officer. “The best way to avoid West Nile Virus infection is to take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites.”

Report mosquito problems, neglected swimming pools, or any area that could be producing mosquitoes at www.msmosquito.com or 1-800-231-3236.

Report dead birds to the West Nile virus hotline at 1-877-968-2473 or online at www.westnile.ca.gov.




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