SACRAMENTO – (INT) - California Department of Public Health announced the first confirmed death in California due to West Nile virus (WNV). The deceased person was a senior citizen in Nevada County.

“This death is a tragic reminder of how severe West Nile virus disease can be,” said Dr. Smith. “West Nile virus activity is more widespread in 2015 than in years past. Californians need to be vigilant in protecting themselves.”

Thirty-three California counties have reported WNV activity so far this year, four more than this time last year and above the five-year average of 22.

WNV is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of serious illness to most people is low. However, some individuals, less than one percent, can develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Story Date: July 28, 2015