LA County health officials confirm first West Nile virus death of 2026

August 21, 2026 - 11:05

The announcement comes as mosquito season peaks across Southern California. The county's vector control district has reported a sharp rise in infected mosquito samples over the past three weeks, particularly in the San Fernando Valley and parts of the San Gabriel Valley. Recent warm weather and standing water from late summer storms have created ideal breeding conditions.

Health officials are urging residents to take basic precautions, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. They recommend wearing long sleeves and pants, using EPA-registered insect repellent, and draining any standing water around homes, including plant saucers, bird baths, and clogged gutters. West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause fever, headache, body aches, and in severe cases, encephalitis or meningitis. Most people infected show no symptoms, but those over 60 or with chronic conditions face higher risk. This is the first reported fatality in the county since 2024. Officials expect more cases in the coming weeks as the season continues.