A new detection of West Nile virus (WNV) has been reported in Chatsworth. WNV spreads through infected mosquitoes. You cannot get WNV directly from another person, it spreads through mosquito bites.
West Nile virus is an illness that mosquitoes can carry after feeding on infected birds. Mosquitoes can then spread the virus through a bite. WNV can make people sick, and in rare cases it can cause serious illness.
Mosquitoes become infected after biting infected birds
An infected mosquito can spread WNV by biting people or animals
People do not spread WNV to other people through normal contact
Anyone can be bitten by mosquitoes, but serious illness is more likely for:
Adults age 50 and older
People with weakened immune systems
People who spend a lot of time outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk
Use EPA registered insect repellent
Wear long sleeves and long pants when mosquitoes are active
Fix or replace window and door screens
Dump standing water around your home (buckets, planters, pet bowls, old tires)
Clean and maintain bird baths and fountains regularly
Symptoms can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or rash. Most people improve on their own, but if you have severe symptoms (confusion, weakness, stiff neck, trouble breathing), get medical care right away.
Se detectó el Virus del Nilo Occidental (VNO) en Chatsworth. El VNO se transmite por la picadura de mosquitos infectados. Use repelente, cubra la piel, repare mosquiteros y elimine el agua estancada.