L.A. health officials confirm first West Nile virus death in 2019 season

Health officials confirm West Nile virus death in L.A. County

One person has died as the result of West Nile virus in L.A. County, health officials confirmed.

LOS ANGELES (FOX 11) - Health officials confirmed the first West Nile virus death in Los Angeles County this year.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported the patient, who is a resident of the South Bay, was hospitalized and died from West Nile virus associated neuro-invasive disease.

The victim’s age or gender was not disclosed.

The department says a total of nine cases have been documented in LA County this year. West Nile virus infected mosquitoes, dead birds and sentinel chickens have been reported in the county, the department says.

“West Nile virus continues to be a serious health threat to residents in Los Angeles County, which excludes Long Beach and Pasadena. We encourage residents to check for items that can hold water and breed mosquitoes, both inside and outside their homes, and to cover, clean or clear out those items,” said Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis.

Doctors say there is no specific treatment or vaccine for West Nile. Humans can get the virus through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Find more information on resources and tips on preventing contracting the West Nile virus online.