Reduce Your Risk of Exposure To West Nile Virus

The City of Moreno Valley Office of Emergency Management would like to inform the public that during this time of the year, cases of the West Nile Virus are especially active due to high humidity, high temperatures and overall climate changes. It is important for the City of Moreno Valley to be aware of this increased risk and take preventative measures in reducing the exposure of this disease. Stated on the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) website, the "West Nile virus (WNV) first emerged in the Western Hemisphere in 1999 in the New York City area and has since spread across the United States. The virus is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes." West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans and animals when the mosquito becomes infected after feeding on infected birds. "Most human infections are mild, causing fever, headache, and body aches, often accompanied by a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. If the virus crosses the blood-brain barrier, however, it can cause life-threatening conditions that include inflammation of the brain and spinal cord," as stated on the NIAID informational website. Elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at greatest risk for serious illness. The best form of mosquito prevention is using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing when outside, especially at dawn or dusk. For extra precaution, make sure that doors and windows have tight screens, and all tears or holes are repaired.