While there has been NO West Nile Virus activity reported in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita, the OCVCD has issued the following precautionary information.
As of August 4, 2016, the OCVCD reports that the number of adult mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus in 2016 has more than doubled. The findings are compounded by the announcement of the first human West Nile virus infection by the Orange County Health Care Agency on August 3, 2016, underscoring the importance of mosquito breeding and bite prevention.
“The Orange County and Mosquito and Vector Control District has significantly increased the number of mosquito control personnel, community outreach, and education, and expanded our surveillance efforts throughout the County in 2016, but those enhancements are not enough to suppress virus transmission during peak mosquito breeding months. We need the assistance of every Orange County resident to help keep our communities free from vectors and vector-borne disease. A single stagnate water source can produce enough mosquitoes to potentially threaten the lives of an entire neighborhood, as mosquitoes can fly several miles in search of a blood meal.” stated Rick Howard, District Manager.
In areas where West Nile virus has been detected, District staff are posting signs and distributing flyers alerting residents to the detection of the virus, and preventative measures they can take to prevent becoming infected. Additional staff has been allocated to canvass these areas to look for mosquito breeding sources, expand public education, and work with city officials to correct infrastructure issues.
Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District makes the following recommendations to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes:
-Eliminate any standing water around your house.
-Make sure all window and door screens on your house are in good repair.
-Wear a repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR 3535.
OCVCD: (949) 654-2421 (714) 971-2421