St. Louis encephalitis and the West Nile virus found in local mosquitoes

The Yuma County Pest Abatement (YCPAD) reported that nine separate samples of mosquitoes collected last Monday from the Colorado River and around County 12th Street and Avenue F have been infected with St. Louis encephalitis (SLE) and West Nile virus.

SLE and West Nile virus was confirmed in blood samples recently collected from sentinel chicken flocks in northwest Yuma, area of the Gila Valley east of Yuma.

YCPAD reports the SLE virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito, similar to West Nile virus.

The staff has sprayed the areas by ground goofing trucks to eliminate infected mosquitoes.

YCPAD advises the community to take the necessary precautions and wear an effective repellent containing either DEET, Picaridin or Lemon-Eucalyptus oil, and re-treat as indicated on the label. Use of long sleeves and long pants to prevent mosquito bites is encouraged despite the high temperatures.

The community is also encouraged to report the abundance of mosquito activity and green pools.