PASADENA, CA — The Public Health Department on Thursday reported the city's first two human cases of West Nile virus this year and urged residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Both cases meet clinical and initial laboratory criteria, but further testing to confirm the infections is still pending, officials said.
Pasadena's last confirmed human case was reported in 2025.
As of Oct. 23, California had reported 452 human cases across 24 counties, including 251 cases in Los Angeles County. Statewide, 29 deaths had been reported. At roughly the same time last year, California had recorded 67 human cases across 15 counties.
"The most effective way to protect yourself is by preventing mosquito bites," Public Health Director Manuel Carmona said in a statement. "PPHD urges residents to take an active role in reducing the threat of West Nile virus by following mosquito prevention tips."
Bites from infected mosquitoes spread the virus, for which no cure or vaccine exist, Pasadena Health Officer Dr. Parveen Kaur said. Most people who become infected have no symptoms, but some develop a potentially life-threatening illness.
"There is no vaccine or cure for West Nile virus disease," Kaur added.
Health officials recommend emptying standing water around the home weekly, discarding unused containers that collect water, and repairing window screens. Residents should also wear protective clothing and use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535.
The department is working with the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District to monitor mosquito activity and conduct inspections and treatments in public spaces.
Birds can also carry West Nile virus, and reports of dead birds help officials track its spread. Residents can report dead birds at westnile.ca.gov or by calling 877-968-2473.
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