Health officials in California are urging residents to take precautions after fresh evidence of West Nile virus activity was detected, signaling the start of mosquito season in several regions.As per the San Diego County officials, two dead crows discovered near the Rolando and Skyline neighborhoods tested positive for West Nile virus. Authorities stated that the discoveries represent some of the earliest indicators of virus activity in the county this year. No human infections have been reported locally so far, but authorities are encouraging residents to stay vigilant and protect themselves from mosquito bites.What is West Nile virus?West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that primarily circulates among birds. Humans and other animals can become infected when mosquitoes feed on infected birds and later transmit the virus through bites.The virus was initially identified in Uganda in 1937 and has since spread to several regions around the world. It is currently regarded as the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States.How does the virus spread?Health experts describe that mosquitoes become carriers after feeding on infected birds. Once infected, the mosquitoes can pass the virus to humans and animals through subsequent bites. The virus does not generally spread from person to person through casual contact. Instead, mosquito bites remain the primary route of transmission.Symptoms of West Nile virusMost people infected with West Nile virus never develop symptoms. However, some individuals may face mild illness that resembles the flu.Common symptoms are:FeverHeadacheNauseaFatigueSkin rashSwollen glandsBody achesSymptoms may last for many days or, in some cases, several weeks.Who is most at risk?While most infections are mild, specific groups experience a higher risk of severe illness.Older adults, mainly those over 50, and people with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to critical complications. In rare instances, the virus can impact the brain and nervous system, possibly leading to life-threatening conditions like encephalitis or meningitis.West Nile virus has earlier caused fatalities. San Diego County officials cited that during a major outbreak in 2015, 44 residents tested positive and six people died.Is there a vaccine or treatment?Now, there is no approved vaccine for West Nile virus in humans.There is also no certain antiviral treatment available. Medical care concentrates on relieving symptoms and offering supportive treatment for patients who develop severe complications. How to prevent mosquito breedingMosquitoes can multiply in even very small amounts of stagnant water. Health authorities recommend regularly checking properties and removing potential breeding locations. Items that should be emptied, cleaned, or removed include:Plant saucersRain barrelsBucketsGarbage cansChildren's toysOld tiresWheelbarrowsClogged guttersHow to protect yourself from mosquito bitesKent County Health Department advises several simple measures to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:Wear long-sleeved clothing and full-length trousers outdoorsApply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535Limit outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when mosquito activity peaksThese precautions can substantially reduce the likelihood of infection.West Nile virus activity reported beyond CaliforniaThe latest detections in California are part of a broader pattern of West Nile virus activity in the United States. In Dallas, Texas, city officials announced that several mosquito samples tested positive for the virus. As a result, mosquito-control spraying operations were set in impacted neighborhoods.How to report mosquito activitySan Diego County residents are being asked to report unusually high mosquito activity, standing water sources, green swimming pools, and dead birds like crows, ravens, jays, hawks, and owls.Reports can be submitted to the county's Vector Control Program by calling 858-694-2888 or emailing vector@sdcounty.ca.gov.FAQs:Q1. What is West Nile virus?West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease that mainly infects birds. Humans can become infected through the bite of an infected mosquito.Q2. How does West Nile virus spread?The virus spreads when mosquitoes feed on infected birds and then bite people or animals. It does not usually spread through casual person-to-person contact.