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July 29, 2005
West Nile UpdatePVT
An employee of the Mason Valley Mosquito Abatement District found the dead bird in Yerington on Monday. A swab was taken from the bird's oral cavity and sent in to the lab. "We have tested over 1,500 mosquito pools, 40 dead birds and 36 horse samples this season and it's our first positive for WNV," said Dr. Anette Rink, supervisor of NDOA's Animal Disease Lab (ADL). Two mosquito pools tested positive for St. Louis Encephalitis in earlier tests. "We appreciate the public helping with surveillance on dead bids this year," said Ed Foster, NDOA spokesperson. "Please check our Web site (www.agri.nv.gov) for WNV updates throughout the season," Foster added. "The bottom line is the West Nile Virus is in Nevada," said Dr. Bradford Lee, State Health Officer. He suggested that people take precautions to prevent mosquito bites such as using insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors, wearing pants, long-sleeve shirts and socks, removing standing water from around your house and making sure the screens on your doors and windows fit properly. "People 50 years of age or older are more likely to develop serious symptoms of West Nile Virus and should take special care to avoid mosquito bites," said Lee. Nevada State Veterinarian Dr. David Thain warned horse owners of how important it is to have their animals vaccinated for WNV as well. |
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