Health officials reported Monday that a child whose age and place of birth was not disclosed is the first person this season to be diagnosed with West Nile virus in Orange County. The child has recovered, a press release from the Orange County Health Care Agency said.
The child was diagnosed with the infection last week, one of 10 cases statewide as of Friday, health officials said.
West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitoes.
In 2019, local health officials reported seven cases and one death from West Nile Virus. Most people do not experience any symptoms of the infection. But about 20% will develop a fever, and may also suffer from headaches, body aches, nausea, fatigue, and a possible rash. More serious symptoms include muscle weakness or paralysis.
West Nile deaths here are rare. The disease is also rare among children. A Tustin woman in her 50s was the first human case of West Nile in 2019, reported nearly a year ago. In October, a 67-year-old Fullerton man died of West Nile encephalitis.
Orange County health data says just 19 people under the age of 18 have tested positive for the West Nile in the past 15 years. Overall, there have been 727 local cases of West Nile since the disease was first identified in California in 2003.
In June, the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District issued a warning of concerns about increased mouse activity in urban and coastal areas of the county.
Vector Control recommends these steps to help prevent mosquito infestation and bite:
- Drain any standing water on your property to reduce areas where mosquitoes can feed, including flower pots and pet bowls.
- Make sure that window and door screens are in good condition.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridine, lemon eucalyptus oil, or products containing IR3535, always follow label directions.
- Limit outdoor activity in the morning and at dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Wear shirts with long sleeves and long pants when you are outside.
For more information, visit ocvector.org.
