KernLife.com

By: James Talarico

Description: West Nile Virus is a concern locally. What precautions can you take to protect yourself?

With 86 confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus in California so far this summer, including 5 deaths, all Kern County residents should be on alert when it comes to mosquitoes. As carriers of the potentially life-threatening virus, these mini public enemies can make a day on the farm or a swim in the lake a nerve-racking experience.

The Center for Disease Control's confirmed 86 human cases of WNV in California  – most in the nation – are spread across 18 counties including Kern County hammered with 48 alone. With the peak WNV risk month of September still ahead of us, local mosquito populations will continue to pose a real health threat to many of our residents including children and senior citizens.

Enjoy the great outdoors by following a few simple rules and using common sense:

• Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible
  
• Avoid outdoor activity at mosquito peak-feeding times, near dusk and dawn
• Keep doors and windows properly screened or tightly closed
• Maximize insect repellent effectiveness by carefully following the manufacturer’s labeled directions for use and reapplication frequency
• Don’t roll out the red carpet for mosquitoes – remove standing or stagnant water from flowerpots, pet bowls, birdbaths, wading pools and other water receptacles outside of your home.
• Try "green" products like Liquid Net www.liquidfence.com.

Get the very latest 2007 WNV statistics as reported by the CDC with the West Nile Virus case by county California map.