Man from Imperial County dies due to West Nile virus

The Imperial County Public Health Department confirmed an Imperial County resident died due to complications from West Nile virus last week.

Desert Sun in Coachella reported the man was identified as 74-year-old Bombay Beach resident, Robert Mears, by a family member. Mears passed away on July 4 at a hospital in San Diego.

Health officials believe Mears may have been exposed to West Nile virus ( WNV ) in late May through June of this year. Family members reported that the individual did not use insect repellent when spending time outdoors and had reported mosquito bites.

It is unknown where the 74-year-old man was infected due to a history of recent travel to different areas in southern California, according to the Imperial County Public Health Department.

“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the resident that passed away as a result of complications with WNV . This local death serves as a reminder to our community of the importance of taking precautions against mosquito bites,” said Stephen Munday , M.D., Health Officer for Imperial County. ” Mosquitoes are typically active in Imperial County this time of year. We urge everyone to take simple steps to eliminate mosquito breeding sources around their homes to protect themselves, their loved ones, and communities. ”

Health officials conducted mosquito trappings in the area where Mears lived, but no mosquito pools were detected. It was not confirmed where exactly he contracted the virus, health officials said.

The virus is transmitted to humans and animals through mosquito bites. Symptoms of WNV include fever, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.

The Imperial County Public Health Department offers the following tips to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases:

-Limit time outdoors during dawn and early evening.

-When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, light-colored, long-sleeve shirts and pants when mosquitoes are most active (during dusk and dawn).

-Apply insect repellent that contains DEET , Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions to prevent mosquito bites.

-Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

-Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property that can support mosquito breeding by:

-Draining or eliminating, old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other container where mosquitoes can breed.

-Emptying and changing the water in birdbaths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to destroy potential mosquito habitats.

-Draining or filling temporary pools of water with dirt.

-Keeping swimming pool water treated and circulating.

-Contact Vector Control if there is a significant mosquito problem where you live or work.

For more information on WNV , click here.