Emergency Services

West Nile Virus 2004

As of July 1, 2004 , Methodist Hospital became a surveillance hospital for the West Nile Virus (WNV) for the County of Los Angeles Department of Health Services. We are honored to participate in this project. Timely reporting of this disease to the health department assists them in both surveillance and future control.

INTERESTING FACTS

Some of dead crows and jays in the Arcadia area are found to be infected with WNV
Mosquitoes become infected when they feed off dead birds
Less than 1% of the mosquitoes actually carry the virus
WNV is transmitted to people by a mosquito bite
80% of people bitten develop no symptoms
20% of those bitten develop mild symptoms: body aches, nausea, vomiting, sometimes swollen lymph nodes or skin rash on chest, stomach or back
Less than 1% of those bitten develop serious symptoms such as high fever, headache, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, numbness and paralysis
WNV is NOT transmitted through person to person contact
Symptoms generally occur within 3 to 14 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito
There is no specific treatment
Severe cases require medical attention and supportive care in a hospital

PREVENTION

Decrease time outside when mosquitoes are most active (dawn and dusk)
Wear long sleeve pants and shirts when outdoors between these times
Use an insect repellant containing DEET (No more than 35% for adults and 10% for children)
Windows and doors should have tight fitting screens
Repair any tears or holes in screens
Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flowerpots, buckets and barrels
Drill drainage holes in tire swings
Change water in pet dishes frequently
Replace water in bird baths weekly
Empty children's wading pools after use and store on its side
If you find a dead bird, pick it up using gloves and place it in a plastic bag
The bird may be disposed in your trash can

West Nile Virus Website Information for More Information
Los Angeles County Department of Health Services: http://www.lapublichealth.org/acd
Adapted from County of Los Angeles Department of Health Services