Man, 80, Is Orange County's First West Nile Virus Fatality of 2015

An 80-year-old Buena Park man who died last week was confirmed today as Orange County’s first human death from West Nile virus this year.

According to the county Health Care Agency, there have been 26 human cases of West Nile virus in the county so far this year. County officials noted that those cases only represent patients who showed symptoms. A far greater number of people may have contracted the virus without ever being diagnosed, since 80 percent of patients don’t show any symptoms, officials said.

“West Nile virus activity tends to peak in August and September in Orange County, but we continue to have cases occur throughout the fall,” said county health officer Dr. Eric G. Handler. “Individuals can take precautionary measures to limit exposure to the West Nile virus. It is important for people to remember that the end of summer does not mean the end of West Nile virus season.”

In 2014, there were 801 human cases throughout California -- the second- highest figure on record -- resulting in 31 deaths, according to state officials.

Mosquitoes typically become carriers of the virus after feeding on an infected bird and can then spread the potentially lethal strain to animals and humans.

Those at greatest risk include seniors and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Symptoms may never materialize, but can include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes.

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

-- 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