Nine Fresno County residents test positive for West Nile virus. How to protect yourself

Fresno County Health Department officials Thursday reported that nine residents have tested positive for West Nile virus so far in 2022.

Three of those infected are asymptomatic, according to county spokesman Dhillon Simranjit. So far this year, mosquito control districts have collected 216 mosquitoes carrying the virus, he added.

Katherine Ramirez. science education coordinator with the Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District, urged residents to take precautions including applying insect repellents that contain DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus or picardidin; eliminating standing water around homes; and wearing long sleeve shirts when outside at dusk or dawn.

The county’s top health officer, Dr. Rais Vohra, said anyone who suspects they are ill with West Nile symptoms should seek medical attention.