Mosquitoes in San Bernardino test positive for West Nile Virus

Mosquitoes collected in the City of San Bernardino have tested positive for West Nile virus.

This is the first collection of mosquitoes that have tested positive in 2022 within the area served by the Environmental Health Services Mosquito and Vector Control Program (MVCP).

“West Nile virus can cause a serious illness in humans, therefore I urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves against mosquito bites,” said San Bernardino County Health Officer Michael A. Sequeira, M.D.

People bitten by an infected mosquito may develop West Nile fever and experience flu-like symptoms which may include fever, body aches, skin rash, and fatigue. In some people, West Nile fever can develop into a more serious form of the disease.

Residents can protect themselves from West Nile virus by following these tips:

• Drain or dump – Remove all standing water around your property where mosquitoes can lay eggs such as birdbaths, green swimming pools, ponds, old tires, buckets, flower pots, clogged gutters, or even puddles from leaky sprinklers.
• Avoid spending time outdoors at dawn and dusk – this is when mosquitoes are most active.
• Dress appropriately when outdoors – Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeved shirts that are loose fitting and light colored.
• Apply insect repellent – Check that your insect repellent contains DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus and apply it according to manufacturer’s directions.
• Doors – Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Property owners with pools/spas must keep them clean to keep them from breeding mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in unmaintained green pools and can fly up to 20 miles, potentially transmitting the virus and impacting entire neighborhoods.

As birds are susceptible to West Nile virus, any dead birds (e.g., crows, jays, magpies, raven, sparrows, finches, or raptors) found in local areas should be reported to assist in monitoring for the virus.

To learn more about West Nile virus or to report a dead bird please visit www.westnile.ca.gov. For more
information or to report a green pool or mosquito breeding source, contact the San Bernardino County
Department of Public Health Environmental Health Services at (800) 442-2283 or visit our website.