OC Health Care Agency Reports First Human West Nile Virus Case of 2024 in Orange County
(Santa Ana, CA) – The OC Health Care Agency reports today that a resident of Huntington Beach has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) infection, becoming the first human WNV case in Orange County this year. Health officials urge residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their family.
“West Nile Virus regularly occurs in Orange County during the summer months and into the fall. With increased WNV Activity reported by our partners at OC Vector Control, we anticipate that additional human cases may be reported in the coming weeks,” said Dr. Matthew Zahn, Deputy County Health Officer. "We encourage everyone to take precautionary measures to avoid mosquito bites as the best way to avoid West Nile Virus infection.”
Recommended WNV precautions include:
- Emptying all standing water on your property to reduce areas in which mosquitoes may breed, including flowerpots and pet bowls.
- Making sure your window and door screens are in good condition.
- Using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or products containing IR3535, always following label directions.
- Limiting outdoor activity at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
Most people who become infected with WNV do not experience symptoms, but about 20% will develop fever and may have headache, body aches, nausea, tiredness and sometimes a skin rash. More serious symptoms, such as severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, muscle weakness or paralysis, occur more rarely, but people who develop these symptoms should seek medical care immediately. People over 50 years of age and those with certain medical conditions are at increased risk of serious complications from WNV infection.
In 2023 there were 7 reported human infections of WNV reported in Orange County. Information on mosquito control is available on the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s website at www.ocvector.org. Other websites with helpful information about WNV include:
ABOUT THE OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY
The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is a regional interdisciplinary health jurisdiction and an accredited health department, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through partnership and coordination of public and private sector resources. Visit www.ochealthinfo.com to learn more about services and resources.
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