Number of Mosquitoes Tested Positive for West Nile Virus Increases

By Kristina Pritchett

The number of mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile Virus in Dana Point has increased to four, officials said.

More than 3,000 mosquitoes have been sampled in the county, and 244 samples tested positive for West Nile, according to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD).

In Dana Point, officials said mosquitoes have been collected in the Quail Run area and around Dana Point City Hall.

Jared Dever, director of communications at OCMVCD, said the first indication of the virus in the city was on July 21, and since then, three subsequent mosquito samples have tested positive in Dana Point.

Mosquitoes have also tested positive in San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente this year, and three people in Orange County have tested positive for the virus.

Residents are encouraged to perform routine property inspections and eliminate all standing water, ensure window and door screens are in good repair and apply mosquito repellent when outdoors.