Residents of Lemon Grove and the broader San Diego County are on alert after two dead crows collected in the area have tested positive for West Nile virus. These findings mark the county's first encounters with the virus this year, as confirmed by routine monitoring carried out by county environmental health officials. There have yet to be reports of human infections in San Diego County in 2025, but the virus still poses a significant health concern, as per the County of San Diego.
West Nile virus, primarily a bird disease, can be transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that have previously bitten an infected bird. Although many human infections are symptomatic only with flu-like effects such as headache, fever, and nausea, the virus can potentially cause severe illness or even prove fatal in rare cases. Given the recent developments, officials have underscored the importance of diligent precautionary measures to mitigate the risk of mosquito bites and proliferation.
To encourage a proactive community response, county officials have recommended adhering to their "Prevent, Protect, Report" guidelines to curb the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. One of the key strategies is eliminating sources of standing water around homes, a measure crucial in preventing mosquitoes from breeding. Homeowners are advised to clear out rain barrels, buckets, garbage cans, and other containers that might serve as mosquito breeding grounds. County residents can also contact the Vector Control Program to receive free mosquito fish that help control mosquito populations in water sources such as ponds and fountains.
Safeguarding against mosquito bites is equally critical. Officials recommend that people wear protective clothing—long sleeves and pants—when outdoors and use approved insect repellents containing ingredients like DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Ensuring window and door screens are intact also features prominently as a line of defense to keep mosquitoes at bay. When it comes to reporting, county residents are urged to be vigilant and report sightings of increased mosquito activity, unmaintained pools, or dead birds, indicating the virus's presence in the environment.
