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The Los Angeles County Public Health Department has confirmed the first death of the West Nile virus (WNV) for the 2018 season in Los Angeles County. The patient, a resident of the San Fernando Valley area, was hospitalized in early September and died from WNV-associated neuroinvasive disease. A total of 38 cases have been documented in Los Angeles County this year (excluding Long Beach and Pasadena as reported by local health departments).
"Our thoughts and prayers are with this person and friends during this sad time. "This West Nile virus is a serious disease," said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer. "Environmental protection agency (EPA) -registered mosquito repels when and where they collect their homes or yards where mosquitoes can breed. Items that can hold water, even if a bottle cap, should be cleaned, covered or cleared to stop mosquito breeding. "
WNV is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito; mosquitoes get infected by a bird that carries the virus. Most mosquitoes do not carry the virus, so most people are not exposed to WNV. The virus is not spread through person-to-person contact or directly from birds to humans. Persons over 50 years of age and age with chronic medical conditions such as cancer and diabetes are at risk of severe neuro-invasive disease from WNV infection that can result in infections of the brain, paralysis and even death. There is no specific treatment for this disease. For many, recovery from their illnesses
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Public Health monitors the cases of WNV infection and collaborates with local authorities. WNV-infected mosquitoes, dead birds, and sentinel chickens have been identified in LA County. All county residents are encouraged to take action to prevent mosquito bites, especially as they are expected to occur this year. Last year's WNV season was growing in record time until mid-December.
Public health has persistently increased numbers of WNV cases in the county over the previous 5 years, at an average of 221 cases per year. 7% of patients with severe WNV have died from complications. In 2017, a record of 27 deaths were reported among the County's 268 cases. Reduction of mosquito breeding sources and protection from mosquito bites are key to prevention.
Decrease your risk of exposure:
- PROTECT YOURSELF: Mosquito repellents can keep mosquitoes from biting you. EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and eucalyptus lemon oil 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.
- MOSQUITO PROOF YOUR HOME: Make sure your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.
- DRAIN STANDING WATER: Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing on your property, including flowerpots, rainbow cars, rain gutters and pet bowls. Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
- POOLS AND SPAS: Clean and maintain swimming pools, spas, and drain water from pool covers.
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