SACRAMENTO, CA — Health experts are warning the public about a sharp increase in mosquito-borne infections that have killed three Californians so far this month, and tripled the cases reported compared to the same period over the previous five years.
At least 30 people have been infected with the disease in 14 counties statewide so far this year. Many include neuroinvasive cases that can cause severe symptoms, according to the California Department of Public Health's latest report on West Nile Virus infections.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus can enter the central nervous system, causing encephalitis and an inflammatory response, also known as swelling.
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The California Department of Public Health said the disease has also been attributed to 373 dead birds, 53 infections in sentinel chickens, and 5 infections in horses.
"West Nile virus is the most common and serious vector-borne disease in California. There have been more than 8,000 human cases and over 400 deaths reported in California since 2003. The mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are found throughout the state," according to the California Department of Public Health.
West Nile virus is known as a flavivirus, a specific type of RNA virus spread by insects such as mosquitoes. Dengue, Zika, and yellow fever are additional types of flavivirus spread by mosquitoes. They can infect birds, horses, and humans.
The West Nile virus infects birds but the disease is spread to humans by mosquitos that have also bitten an infected bird, human or horse.
"West Nile virus is the main disease spread by mosquitoes in the U.S., including in California. People most often get infected with West Nile virus during the summer and early fall when the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are most active," according to the California Department of Public Health.
Cases of the West Nile virus have also increased across the country, causing eight deaths so far this year, including the recent cases in California.
According to the CDC, more than 180 cases have been reported nationwide this season. Arizona has experienced the most significant increase in cases reporting 73 cases and five deaths.
According to the Mayo Clinic, most people infected with the West Nile virus do not experience any symptoms. However, the disease can cause fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting and rash. Most people recover from infection, but some experience weakness and fatigue for months.
People over 60 years old or who have chronic illnesses and immune system disorders are more likely to experience serious symptoms.
Health experts say the best way to prevent West Nile Virus infection and mosquito-borne illness is to avoid contact with mosquitos with the following tips:
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