District Activates Additional West Nile Virus Information

Resources for Public

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 27, 2005

Public information hotline, (702) 759-1220, and updated website section at www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org available

(Las Vegas, Nev., – July 27, 2005) – Though West Nile virus has not been detected in Clark County this year, a human West Nile virus case has been diagnosed in Northern Nevada, as announced today by the Nevada State Health Division. With West Nile virus activity confirmed in Nevada, the health district is making additional informational resources available to the public.

The Southern Nevada Health District has fully activated its West Nile virus public information hotline, (702) 759-1220, to provide current health and prevention information to area residents 24 hours a day. The public may also call the hotline to report birds that have been dead for less than 24 hours (crows, ravens, magpies, jays, hawks and eagles only are sought for testing), mosquitoes, areas of standing water that cannot be removed and improperly maintained swimming pools.

The health district has also launched a new West Nile virus section of its website at www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org. The section features updated information on prevention, insect repellent and frequently asked questions.

“We hope these resources will make it easier for the public to learn more about West Nile virus prevention and help our community control mosquito populations,” said Dr. Donald Kwalick, chief health officer.

Monsoonal rains raise the potential for areas of standing water that contribute to mosquito breeding. In particular, unused swimming pools act as large reservoirs for rainwater, which will stagnate quickly in the summer heat. The health district is soliciting the public’s help in locating unused, abandoned or improperly maintained swimming pools, so they may be treated with larvicide pellets, which inhibit the development of mosquito larvae. Reports may be filed through the West Nile virus hotline at (702) 759-1220.

For additional information, call (702) 759-1220 or visit www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org.

Visit the Media Contacts webpage for media related inquiries.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.