First Lancaster chicken confirmed positive for West Nile Virus

  • Published
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Office
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District has received confirmation that a blood sample from a chicken in Lancaster has tested positive for West Nile Virus. The chicken is part of a flock located near 45th Street East and Ave. J. The District has eight flocks of sentinel chickens that are placed throughout the Antelope Valley to detect mosquito-borne viruses such as WNV, St. Louis Encephalitis and Western Equine Encephalitis. There are no sentinel chickens located on base.

This is the first chicken in Los Angeles County to show a WNV infection. So far this year the virus activity has been slower than in the last few years in Southern California, although some areas have higher numbers than last year. The majority of action this year has been in the San Francisco Bay Area and San Joaquin Central Valley. Two dead birds that were found in Quartz Hill earlier this year have also tested positive to previous WNV infections.

"This serves as a reminder that the virus is still active and that we need to stay vigilant to protect ourselves against it," District Manager Cei Kratz said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using repellents that contain DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-Toluamide), Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535, (an insect repellant commonly found in Avon's product line of Skin-So-Soft insect repellant). These are proven to be effective and safe if used according to the directions.

Edwards' Public Health flight traps mosquitoes throughout the base during the months of April through November. Traps are placed in the following areas: Branch Pond, Housing, Horse Stables, Fam Camp Park, Temporary Lodging Facility, Youth Center, Bark Park, Center of Excellence, and various school areas. If you come across a trap please do not tamper with them, as they are vital to capturing mosquitoes that may potentially carry various diseases.

As of Aug. 20, there are no reported cases of WNV on Edwards. WNV has been found in 28 counties in 676 mosquito samples, 231 birds, 51 chickens, 11 tree squirrels, four horses and 22 human cases. WNV is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Although most people that are infected do not show any symptoms, WNV is a potentially debilitating disease. Even 'mild' cases of West Nile Fever can cause patients enormous pain and discomfort for months.

Residents are encouraged to continue reporting any dead birds to the California West Nile Virus Hotline at 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or Public Health at 661-277-2244. Not all birds will be tested, but the data of dead-bird clusters is vital in tracking and controlling the virus.

District officials urge residents to take individual responsibility, and remember the 3 D's protect yourself and your family from West Nile Virus:

- DRAIN all standing water - Empty out small containers at least once a week, keep pools and spas chlorinated or drained, and repair all water leaks. Conserve water and prevent mosquito breeding.
- DUSK and DAWN - are peak activity times for mosquitoes.
- DEFEND yourself - wear long-sleeved shirts, full-length slacks and use mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 when outdoors during mosquito activity. Always follow instructions on the product label. Keep tight fitting screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.

For any further questions or services, contact Public Health at 661-277-2244.