BAKERSFIELD, CA (Monday, Oct. 3, 2011 at 1:30 p.m.)— The Kern County Department of Public Health has just released this statement about the first two deaths in Calfiornia from West Nile Viarus occurring in this county:

KERN COUNTY HAS FIRST TWO HUMAN DEATHS IN CALIFORNIA FROM WEST NILE VIRUS

October 3, 2011
The Kern County Department of Public Health sadly announces the death of two Kern County residents from complications of a neuroinvasive West Nile virus infection. An 86 year-old male resident of Arvin and a 37 year-old male resident of Bakersfield were confirmed dead with West Nile virus disease.

“I am sad to report that we have lost two members of our community to West Nile virus,” said Claudia Jonah, M.D., Health Officer. “It is necessary to remember that depending on who becomes infected, there are occasions in which this illness can be deadly.”

”No one can predict if they will be one of the few to become severely ill from this virus. Therefore, it is imperative to protect ourselves, our children, and the elderly from exposure by preventing mosquito bites and by removing sources for mosquito breeding around our homes,” said Public Health Director Matt Constantine.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans, birds, and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. Dr. Jonah is urging everyone to use all available preventive measures to protect themselves against mosquitoes which carry West Nile virus as well as other diseases. Kern County citizens can reduce their risk of mosquito-borne diseases by following the 3 Ds of West Nile virus prevention.
 

This is part of the September 30, 2011 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

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