West Side Mosquito & Vector Control District is treating and monitoring area

St. Louis Encephalitis Virus (SLEV) has officially been confirmed for the first time this season in western Kern County, the West Side Mosquito & Vector Control District announced Wednesday. Mosquito samples taken from a source close to the Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area have tested positive for SLEV.

District technicians are actively treating and monitoring the area.

The District will continue to monitor disease activity throughout the remainder of the season and will adjust control measures to combat the threat of disease transmission and protect public health.

This information should serve as a reminder to everyone that mosquito-borne illnesses are here and represent a threat to healthy living.

The potential for virus transmission exists any time birds, mosquitoes, and humans are present in the same area. Female mosquitoes acquire viruses when they bite infected birds. Viruses are then transmitted to humans as female mosquitoes continue to seek blood meals to produce their eggs. If you think you have been infected with a mosquito-borne illness please seek proper diagnosis from a medical professional.

More detailed information may be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (cdc.gov), or the California Department of Public Health website (cdph.ca.gov).

Individuals are urged to take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Be aware that peak mosquito activity occurs during dawn and dusk. If you are outdoors in the early morning or evening wear proper clothing (long sleeves and pants) and repellent. Apply insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Those in residential areas should make sure that doors and windows have tight fitting screens that are free of holes or tears. Avoid leaving doors and windows open during morning and evening hours. Following these practices can help reduce the risk of mosquito bites and disease transmission.

If you find a possible mosquito breeding source (standing water) or have adult mosquitoes around your home please call the District office at 661-763-3510. Office hours are 7:00am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday. Mosquito fish are also available for those who may have ponds, fountains, or water troughs.