NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – California’s third case of equine West Nile Virus has been found in Glenn County, at the same time as the disease’s presence in the state appears to be making a resurgence.
Glenn County Mosquito and Vector Control District, Glenn County Animal Control Services and the Glenn County Health Services Agency reported that an infected horse was found just northwest of the city of Orland.
It’s the county’s first case of the equine infection in nearly eight years, according to local officials.
They reported that the horse – which had not been vaccinated against West Nile Virus – is not expected to survive.
“This is an unfortunate reminder that citizens must take action to protect their animals,” said Glenn County Sheriff Larry Jones, who oversees Glenn County Animal Control Services.
The state’s West Nile Virus Web site, www.westnile.ca.gov , reported that San Joaquin and Stanislaus are the other counties where the equine version of the disease has been reported this year.
Glenn County also reported an increase in dead, West Nile-infected birds found around the cities of Willows and Orland.
Lake County, Glenn’s neighbor to the southwest, has had no reported cases of West Nile Virus of any kind – human, mosquito, horse, squirrel, bird or sentinel chicken – so far this year, according to the state.
However, West Nile has been making a stronger showing this year after several years of declines.
“West Nile Virus is more prevalent this season than last year and it is important that residents take action now to protect themselves and their family members,” said Glenn County Health Director Scott Gruendl.
State numbers bear out Gruendl’s warning.
The state reported that in 2012 the disease has been found in 26 counties, as opposed to 18 last year. There were no equine cases last year, but so far in 2012 there are three.
The cases of dead birds have gone up significantly this year, rising to 493 compared to 88 in 2011. Mosquito samples have jumped from 271 in 2011 to 746 this year, according to the state.
Officials reminded horse owners of the importance of vaccinating their animals against the virus, which has a tendency to kill one-third to one-half of the horses that become infected.
Equine owners must remember that one vaccination does not protect a horse from West Nile Virus. Maximum protection can only be obtained with two separate vaccinations, three to four weeks apart. Owners of equine animals, which include horses, donkeys and mules, are urged to contact their local veterinarians for more information.
Basic precautions that can reduce the likelihood of infection include draining standing water, avoiding being outside at dawn or dusk, wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants, as well as using repellent.
Glenn County also is taking additional steps, including fogging operations to control mosquitoes.
To report a dead bird, residents are encouraged to call 1-877-WNV-BIRD or log onto www.westnile.ca.gov and follow the link to report.