The West Nile virus continues to be a threat as the number of mosquitoes which test positive for the virus increases with each day. State authorities said that they would conduct an aerial search for mosquito breeding sources that could potentially carry West Nile virus.
Mosquito control teams will spray pesticide to avoid more cases of infections. They will be looking for neglected pools and other sources of standing water that attracts the insects. People should take precautions when going outside at dawn or dusk, wear long sleeves, insect repellent that should be applied routinely before going outside, since the virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is extremely important for elderly people to pay more attention, as they are more prone to severe complications due to their weakened immune system.
According to Santa Clara County officials, a plane equipped with digital photography capability will survey 105 square miles, including portions of Cupertino, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Mountain View, Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga, Stanford and Sunnyvale, a local source notes. The Santa Clara County Vector Control District found three mosquito samples that tested positive for the virus. No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in the county this year.
A single source of standing water can produce millions of mosquitoes, which can pose health risks to a large area. Health officials strongly advised people to immediately announce the authorities in case they see a dead bird and to stay away from it.
There is a risk of West Nile virus infections as long as mosquitoes are active.
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