Shasta County has had its first known case of West Nile Virus this season. It was confirmed last Thursday and the patient is recovering. A record number of positive mosquito samples were found by Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District last year, and the rains followed by sunshine will make for prime breeding conditions. West Nile is spread by mosquitoes after they bite an infected bird. Symptoms of the virus include high fever, severe headache, confusion or a stiff neck. Everyone should check their yards and eliminate standing water where mosquitos can breed. West Nile is especially deadly for horses, the only species for which a vaccine exists. Heavy mosquito problems can be reported to 365-3768 or shastamosquito.org. Dead crows, jays and magpies can be reported to westnile.ca.gov.
-Steve Gibson