The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health or Public Health has confirmed the first death due to West Nile virus or WNV for the 2021 season in Los Angeles County. The patient, a resident of the eastern region of Los Angeles County, was hospitalized and died from WNV-associated neuro-invasive disease.
Humans get WNV through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most mosquitoes do not carry the virus; therefore, most people bitten by a mosquito are not exposed to WNV. Those who do get WNV may experience mild symptoms including fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. In some cases, especially in persons over 50 years of age and those with chronic medical conditions such as cancer and diabetes, severe WNV infection can occur and affect the brain and spinal cord causing meningitis, encephalitis, and paralysis. There is no specific treatment for WNV disease and no vaccine to prevent infection.
A total of 10 cases have been documented in Los Angeles County this year. WNV-infected mosquitoes, dead birds, and sentinel chickens have been identified across Los Angeles County. Public Health monitors cases of WNV infection and collaborates with local vector control agencies to reduce the risk of WNV to humans by promoting prevention and mosquito reduction.
Decrease your risk of exposure:
More information and resources:
Where to call with questions about mosquitoes:
Stagnant swimming pools or “green pools” should be reported to the Public Health Environmental Health Bureau at 626-430-5200, or to a local vector control agency. Dead birds may be reported by calling 877-968-2473 or online: https://westnile.ca.gov/report.php
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