Public Health Dept Press Release

Preventing West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease

The Calaveras County Public Health Department reminds residents to take preventive steps to ensure a healthy spring season.  Recent rains and warming temperatures mean mosquito and tick season is here.  Taking steps to reduce the chances of being bitten by these pests can prevent West Nile virus and Lyme disease.

West Nile virus is established in Calaveras County.  “While local West Nile virus cases have not been reported recently, it is still important to take preventive steps to avoid being infected,” stated Dr. Dean Kelaita, County Health Officer.  West Nile virus is spread to people from the bite of an infected mosquito.  Bites can be prevented by using an insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin. 

Oil of lemon eucalyptus has also been shown to be effective.  Repellents should be used as directed on the package.  Limiting outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when the mosquitoes are most active and wearing protective clothes will limit mosquito bites.  Prevent mosquitoes from breeding near your home.  Mosquitoes need only a small amount of standing water to breed.  Empty the standing water from plant pot saucers, tire swings, pet dishes and other outdoor objects that collect water. 

“Most people who get infected will not have any symptoms or very mild ones that do not require medical care,” Kelaita said.  West Nile virus can be a serious illness, especially for people over 50 years and those with weakened immune systems.  Symptoms of West Nile virus may include fever and aches.  Symptoms of serious illness include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, weakness or paralysis, or disorientation.  If symptoms are severe, contact your doctor right away.

The Public Health Department also recommends taking prevention steps to avoid Lyme disease.  People get Lyme disease from the bite of an infected tick.  Adult ticks are found in cool, moist areas in fall through spring.  They are found on wild grasses along trails. 

“Avoid areas where ticks are likely to be,” advised Dr. Kelaita.  “Walk in the middle of trails, tuck pants into your boots or socks, wear light colored clothing and use repellent,” added Kelaita.  “Follow the directions on the repellent container carefully, especially for use on children,” Kelaita recommended.  Just like for mosquitoes, repellents with DEET or permethrin work best.  Check for ticks during and up to three days after being in

areas where ticks are likely. 

Symptoms of Lyme disease may include a red, expanding skin rash, chills and fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, muscle or joint pain, and weakness.  The rash appears up to 30 days after the bite of an infected tick.  If you have been in an area where ticks are likely and have symptoms of Lyme disease, call your doctor.  Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics.  It is important to get treatment early to avoid serious long term effects from Lyme infection.

For more information, call the Calaveras County Public Health Department at 754-6460 or visit the Public Health website at www.calaveraspublichealth.com.