Two Santa Clara County Residents Recover from West Nile Virus, Officials Urge Precautions
Santa Clara County reported its first human West Nile virus cases of the year, with both patients recovering at home, while health officials warned residents to take preventive measures.
Two residents of Santa Clara County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus and are recovering at home after receiving medical care, marking the Bay Area's first confirmed human cases of the mosquito-borne disease this year. The cases are unrelated, and investigators have not yet determined whether the infections were acquired locally, as both patients traveled during the virus's two-day to two-week incubation period, said Dr. Krishna Surasi, communicable disease controller for the Santa Clara Public Health Department. Details about the patients were withheld to protect their privacy.
Public health officials in Santa Clara County and the East Bay emphasized the seriousness of the threat. West Nile virus, California's most common mosquito-borne disease, typically causes mild or no symptoms but can be fatal in rare instances. The state has recorded more than 8,000 cases and 400 deaths since 2003.
"It’s really important for people to recognize that this is a threat in the region, and to take whatever measures they can to protect themselves," Surasi said.
"These two cases are a reminder that West Nile virus can cause very serious illness," he added.
Symptoms may include headache, fever, and body aches and can progress to vomiting or neurological complications. While five other human cases have been confirmed elsewhere in California this year, none have been fatal.
Jeremy Shannon, assistant manager of the Santa Clara County Mosquito and Vector Control District, reported that testing has detected West Nile virus in local mosquito populations. He advised residents to eliminate standing water, report potential breeding sites, and use repellents containing DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
"Even a water-bottle cap can be a source of mosquitoes," said Nola Woods, spokesperson for the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District.
Mosquito activity has increased statewide following a mild winter, a wet spring and summer heat, according to Shannon. In neighboring Alameda County, officials recently sprayed insecticide in Newark after five birds tested positive for the virus.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that no vaccines or specific treatments exist for human West Nile virus infections. People over 60, or those with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions, face higher risk, though severe illness occurs in less than 1% of infections. Residents are also encouraged to report dead birds for testing, using the state hotline 1-877-968-2473 or the online reporting portal.