West Nile human case found in Santa Barbara SANTA BARBARA, CA (BDCi) – A man has been hospitalized and released to go home after detected with the West Nile virus in Santa Barbara County. This is the first human case of the West Nile virus to be found this year and was confirmed Friday by public health officials. As reported by KTLA, the virus has been detected in 14 other California counties since January, the majority found within the southern section of the state. Officials say the best way to protect oneself from the virus is to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes since it is transferred from mosquito bites. Meanwhile Santa Barbara city officials are taking the initiative to make sure residents are warned about this new human case. “With the first confirmed human illness from West Nile virus this year, we are intensifying our surveillance for the virus with the help of all counties,” said Chief Deputy Director Kathleen Billingsley.
To find more information about the West Nile Virus or learn of ways to avoid it, go to the following state sponsored website http://www.westnile.ca.gov
Writer: Shayla Selva Source: KTLA, Los Angeles Times
Date: July 23, 2011