Health officials urge residents to take precautions against mosquito bites

Imperial County health officials confirmed two cases of the St. Louis encephalitis virus and another case of the West Nile virus.

Officials are urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.

Just last month a valley resident died of complications from the West Nile virus.

Karla Lopez, an Epidemiologist for the Imperial County Public Health Department said, ” Our department of vector control have and previously reported identification of positive pools for mosquitoes that are positive for these types of infections. ”

Lopez said anyone can be a victim to mosquito-borne viruses.

” This is transmitted by an infected mosquito. So we have to be exposed or be bitten by a mosquito that is carrying this virus in order for us to get infected. ”

Symptoms of both the West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis virus are very general.

” It could be a severe headache. Fatigue, fever, nausea, vomiting. ”

But Rachael Birn , a concerned valley resident is not taking any chances.

” So I have removed any standing water in my back yard and I’m also making sure that I apply bug spray on my kids so that they don’t get bit by the mosquitoes. Especially at the morning or dusk time, ” said Birn .

Lopez said the Imperial County Public Health Department will continue monitoring those who might have the virus.

Lopez added, ” We are actively looking for more cases at our local hospitals. To see if there’s probably more missed cases when they go in to seek care. ”

Health officials said anyone who is suffering from severe symptoms related to the virus should seek medical attention.