LEBANON — Summer is nearly over and there have been no cases of West Nile virus reported in Linn County for 2005.

The mosquito-borne disease usually spreads the fastest in August and September, when heat and humidity levels are most accomodating to the insects.

West Nile virus is known to affect humans, birds and horses. In the case of humans, people with weaker immune systems such as the very young and the elderly are more susceptible. Most healthy adults, however, will not be affected by it.

Birds frequently die from contracting the disease and it can be a very serious problem for horses.

In 2004, the first year West Nile appeared in this state, 37 horses, 23 birds and five humans contracted the disease in Oregon. One of the horse cases was reported in Linn County.

So far in 2005, there have been reported two cases of human infection, nine cases in birds and four in horses in Oregon. One of the two human infections was reported in Lane County.

Humans can avoid the disease by taking precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing insect repellent. The Oregon Department of Human Services also encourages people to report dead birds to the county health department and reduce mosquito habitat by draining excess water from their property.

For horses there is an inexpensive vaccine available at veterinary clinics. Horse owners can purchase the vaccine and administer the shot themselves. A booster shot is required one month later and another shot every six months is recommended.

For more information on West Nile Virus, log on to http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/acd/diseases/wnile/wnile.shtml or call 1-866-703-4636.