LA County Public Health News Release - West Nile Virus

Public Health has identified the first case of West Nile virus (WNV) infection for the 2026 season in a Los Angeles County resident.

West Nile Virus spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, and a mild skin rash.

Los Angeles County Public Health officials confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus for the 2026 season on July 13, involving an Antelope Valley resident who developed West Nile encephalitis. Most individuals show no symptoms, but severe cases can lead to brain inflammation, fever, and paralysis.

Health officials strongly recommend proactive preventative measures:

Eliminate standing water in buckets, pet bowls, and planters where mosquitoes breed.
Use insect repellent containing EPA-approved ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Maintain screens on all windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside.
Avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when vector mosquitoes are most active. [1]

Report dead birds—which can serve as an early indicator of virus activity in the area—to the Statewide West Nile Virus Website. Sign up for free weekly vector alerts through the Los Angeles County Public Health Department.

PUBLIC HEALTH NEWS RELEASE

http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/media/mediapubhpdetail.cfm?prid=5380