Orange County faces potentially worst West Nile season
Mosquito control officials say the county is experiencing record levels of West Nile virus in mosquitoes, prompting a call for increased personal protection measures.
Orange County mosquito control officials warned residents that the region may be experiencing its most severe West Nile virus season on record. The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District reported a surge in virus-positive mosquitoes across 16 cities, with the highest activity in the northwestern areas of Fullerton, Anaheim and Buena Park.
"We are seeing way more mosquitoes with West Nile than we have ever seen," spokesperson Brian Brannon said.
The district has logged 206 positive samples this year, up from 186 in 2025, after identifying 101 positive samples last week. Ecologist Kiet Nguyen noted that while 2023 saw a concentration of activity in Anaheim, the current season shows a broader and higher level of virus presence.
Despite the rise in infected mosquitoes, no human cases have been confirmed in Orange County so far. Health officials reminded the public that most West Nile infections are asymptomatic, though severe illness can occur.
Residents are urged to eliminate standing water and take protective actions during peak mosquito activity at dusk and dawn, such as wearing repellent-treated clothing, long sleeves and pants.
"Dusk and dawn are the danger times when you want to make sure to be either wearing repellent or long pants like jeans and long sleeves," Brannon added.