Los Angeles County records 100 West Nile cases, five deaths as season peaks

Los Angeles County health officials said Monday that 100 cases of West Nile virus have been confirmed so far this year, the highest tally for this point in the mosquito season in nearly ten years. Five deaths have been linked to the disease, and most patients required hospital care for severe neurological symptoms, the county Department of Public Health reported.

The last time the county logged at least 100 cases was in 2017, when 268 infections were recorded over the full season. County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis warned that the virus can cause serious illness and urged residents to take protective measures during the peak transmission period.

"West Nile virus can cause serious illness, and the number of severe cases and deaths we are seeing this year is concerning," Dr. Davis said.

Officials recommended using EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, 2-undecanone or oil of lemon eucalyptus, eliminating standing water, and ensuring screens are intact. The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District also said its teams are expanding surveillance, targeted mosquito-control treatments and community outreach.

"West Nile virus activity is higher than we typically see, and our teams are actively responding with enhanced surveillance, targeted mosquito control treatments, disease investigations, and increased community outreach and education," district manager Jason Farned said.

West Nile virus, endemic to the region, is transmitted by mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds. While most infections are asymptomatic, about 20% develop fever and other symptoms, and roughly one in 150 progress to severe neurological illness. People over 50 and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk. No vaccine or specific treatment exists.