The first sign of West Nile Virus in Shasta County this season has been found at an unusually high altitude, according to Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District. One mosquito sample gathered in Shingletown has recently tested positive for the virus, indicating an increased risk to humans. No human cases have been reported this year in Shasta County, or statewide, but officials say the type of mosquito that carries the virus thrives in the very hot weather that Shasta County has been experiencing. Most of the time infected people experience no symptoms at all, but for about one in five cases it can be deadly. It’s carried most commonly in birds such as Crows, Jays, and Magpies. Humans get infected by mosquitos that have bitten infected birds. West Nile cannot be transmitted between humans. It’s fatal for about 1 in 3 infected horses,the only species for which there is a vaccine. 84 infected birds have been found statewide and 269 positive mosquito samples. The best way to fight West Nile is by eliminating standing water where mosquitos breed. Significant mosquito problems can be reported at shastamosquito.org or (530) 365-3768.
– Steve Gibson