First West Nile Virus Death Of 2021 Reported In LA County

LOS ANGELES, CA — The first death from West Nile virus this year was reported in Los Angeles County, officials said Friday. The person's age or gender was not released.

The patient was a resident of the eastern region of the county, the county's public health department said in a statement.

"To the family and friends feeling the sorrow of losing this person due to WNV, we send you our deepest sympathies,” said Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County's health officer.

Ten cases of West Nile virus — transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito — have been reported within the county this year. Infected dead birds, sentinel chickens and mosquitos have been found across the region, officials said.

Warm temperatures tend to increase the prevalence of mosquitos and virus activity.

"West Nile virus can be a serious health threat to people who get infected. People should regularly check for items that can hold water and breed mosquitoes, both inside and outside their homes, and to cover, clean or throw out those items," Davis said. "I encourage everyone to protect themselves from diseases spread by mosquitoes by using EPA-registered mosquito repellent products as directed, and wear clothing that covers your arms and legs."

The county offered the following tips to decrease exposure to mosquitos:

1. Protect yourself: Mosquito repellents can keep mosquitoes from biting you. EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, 2-undecanone, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are the longest lasting and most effective. They are available as sprays, wipes, and lotions. Find the repellent that’s right for you here. Consider wearing long-sleeved clothes and pants when outside.
2. Mosquito proof your home: Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.
3. Reduce mosquitoes: Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water.

• Check for items that hold water inside and outside your home once a week
• Cover water storage containers such as buckets and rain barrels. If no lid, use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.
• Clear standing water in flower pots, saucers, birdbaths and other containers.
• Clean and maintain swimming pools, spas and drain water from pool covers.
• Cast out (throw away) old items in your patio or yard that can hold water, e.g., old car tires and children’s toys.
• Call 2-1-1 or visit www.socalmosquito.org to report persistent problems to your mosquito control district.