L.A. resident dies from West Nile virus; California cases hit 5-year high amid warming climate

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Set us as preferred After an abnormally warm winter and a blistering March heat wave, California has seen a surge in mosquito activity that has driven West Nile virus activity to a five-year high.As of last week, there had been 30 human cases of the virus and three fatalities across the state, according to the California Department of Public Health.Then on Thursday, L.A.

County announced its first West Nile death of the year — a San Fernando Valley resident who had been hospitalized with a neurological complication caused by a severe infection.The L.A.

Public Health Department has recorded 15 infections so far this year, with roughly half in the San Fernando Valley.“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends grieving the loss of a loved one due to West Nile virus,” L.A.County Health Officer Muntu Davis said in a statement.

“This tragic loss is a reminder of the serious threat posed by mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus and dengue.”Davis urged residents to take steps to reduce their risk such as using DEET-containing insect repellent, eliminating sources of standing water and ensuring windows and doors have tight-fitting screens.“Small actions like these can make a big difference in preventing illness,” he said.

Science & Medicine It feels like vector-borne diseases are popping up everywhere these days.Has something changed?West Nile virus survives in nature in several types of birds and is transmitted to humans by the bites of mosquitoes that feed on infected birds.

Peak mosquito season typically lasts from June to November in L.A.County, but this year the blood suckers made an early appearance.

“After experiencing the warmest winter on record, West Nile virus amplification and consequently detection in Los Angeles County started almost two months early this year, ...