Delinquent Mortgages and West Nile Virus in California
Author Information
Author(s): William K. Reisen, Richard M. Takahashi, Brian D. Carroll, Rob Quiring
Primary Institution: University of California, Davis
Hypothesis
The increase in neglected swimming pools due to delinquent mortgages is associated with a rise in West Nile virus cases.
Conclusion
The increase in neglected swimming pools linked to the housing crisis contributed to a significant rise in West Nile virus cases in Bakersfield during 2007.
Supporting Evidence
- The housing crisis led to a 300% increase in notices of delinquency in Kern County.
- There was a 276% increase in human West Nile virus cases during the summer of 2007.
- Neglected pools created new habitats for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of West Nile virus transmission.
Takeaway
When people lost their homes and left their pools dirty, it made it easier for mosquitoes to breed, which led to more people getting sick from West Nile virus.
Methodology
The study analyzed the relationship between housing market downturns, neglected swimming pools, and West Nile virus cases through surveillance data and mosquito control requests.
Limitations
The study is limited by the reliance on surveillance data and may not account for all factors influencing West Nile virus transmission.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on the Bakersfield area of Kern County, California.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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