First Orange County West Nile Deaths In 2026 Reported By County Health Agency

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — Orange County residents were being warned Wednesday after health officials announced the county's first human deaths associated with West Nile virus this year, along with 36 reported infections amid a particularly intense season for the mosquito-borne illness.

The deaths were confirmed this week in older adults, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency. Officials did not disclose the number of deaths or provide additional information about the patients.

Health officials said the 36 reported infections likely represent only a fraction of the actual number in Orange County because about 80% of people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms. The majority of people who develop West Nile fever also do not seek medical care and are not tested.

"Our hearts go out to the loved ones of those who passed. West Nile virus is endemic in Orange County, recurring every year during the summer months and continuing into the fall," county Health Officer Dr. Regina Chinsio- Kwong said. "This year has been particularly intense, with detections of the virus in humans, mosquitoes, and birds. The recent fatalities show how serious and harmful WNV can be. The best way to reduce the risk of West Nile virus infection is to take measures to avoid mosquito bites and take measures to reduce mosquito breeding around your home."

Symptoms of West Nile infection can include fever, headache, body aches and fatigue, according to health officials.

About 20% of people infected with the virus develop a fever and may also experience headaches, body aches, nausea, tiredness and sometimes a skin rash.

More serious symptoms associated with West Nile neuroinvasive disease can include severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, muscle weakness, vision loss or paralysis. Health officials urged anyone who develops such symptoms to seek medical care immediately.

People over 50 and those with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk of serious complications from West Nile virus infection, according to the agency.

Health officials recommended that residents take several steps to reduce their risk of infection, including:

-- Emptying all standing water on their property to eliminate areas where mosquitoes may breed, including flowerpots and pet bowls;

-- Making sure window and door screens are in good condition;

-- Using Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or products containing IR3535, while following label directions;

-- Limiting outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active; and

-- Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. Because most infected people do not develop symptoms, health officials said prevention efforts are particularly important during periods of increased mosquito and virus activity.

Information about mosquito control and prevention is available from the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District at ocvector.org.