West Nile Virus detected in Pismo Beach
July 28, 2013
Health officials have detected West Nile Virus in mosquitoes collected in Pismo Beach this month.
The virus was discovered in mosquitoes collected on July 9 and 10 at Chumash Park, according to the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department.
Following the discovery, the district treated Pismo Creek, two freshwater ponds at Chumash Park Pismo Ecological Reserve, the North Beach Campground, LeSage Riviera Golf Course and Oceano Campground on July 18.
There have been 23 total cases of West Nile Virus nationwide so far this year, resulting in three deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last year, the most deadly year on record for West Nile cases, there were 286 U.S. deaths attributed to the virus.
The best way for people to protect themselves from the virus is to avoid being bitten. Officials say to minimize your risk eliminate standing water around your property, wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, use insect repellent and avoid being outside around dusk and dawn, which are peak times for mosquitoes.
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