First Two Deaths from West Nile Confirmed in County

LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CA — The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health on Friday confirmed the first two deaths from West Nile virus in the county this year.

The two people were described only as "elderly males" from the San Fernando Valley, and both were hospitalized in August and died from West Nile-associated encephalitis.

The deaths are the first West Nile virus-related deaths of the year in the DPH coverage area, which excludes Long Beach and Pasadena because those cities have their own health departments.

• First Human Case of West Nile Virus in Long Beach Reported

"This serves as a warning that West Nile virus is a serious disease that may lead to hospitalization and can even result in death," said Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, interim Los Angeles County health officer. "Older adults and people with weak immune systems are at highest risk of severe illness. Protect yourself from mosquitoes by using insect repellent containing an effective ingredient such as DEET, and eliminating and standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed. Do it for your kids. Do it for your grandkids. Do it for yourself."

According to the public health department, there have been 11 new West Nile infections in the past week, bringing the total for the year to 68. There have been 108 cases reported statewide, including four deaths, health officials said.

• West Niles Confirmed in L.A. Mosquitoes

Last year, there were 300 total human cases in Los Angeles County, and 24 deaths, according to the Department of Public Health.

Symptoms of the virus -- which is transmitted by mosquito bites -- can include fever, body aches, rash, nausea, vomiting and headaches, but many people who are infected may not show any symptoms. About one in 150 people could develop more serious problems, such as brain inflammation or paralysis, health officials said.

• Dead Birds in Monrovia Test Positive for West Nile Virus

Mosquito season in Southern California generally spans the months of May to October. To reduce exposure to WNV, residents are urged to:

• eliminate standing water that can attract mosquitoes;
• spend as little time as possible outdoors at dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are generally on the move;
• wear pants and long-sleeved shirts during outdoor activity;
• use insect repellent;
• ensure door and window screens are fitted properly to keep bugs out; and
• get rid of standing water, aside from pools properly treated with chemicals.

— City News Service, photo via Shutterstock