INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) – West Nile Virus is making an early appearance this year.

A 74-year-old Riverside woman and 50-year-old Eastvale man are the first confirmed human cases of the virus in Riverside County this year, said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, county public health officer. They are also the first confirmed human cases in California this year.

The illness was confirmed this week based on test results and other clinical information. Both patients required hospitalization, but are expected to recover. There are no indications the two cases are related.

State health officials reported Friday one human case each in Los Angeles and Kern counties.

The virus is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Elderly individuals and those with compromised immune systems are at greatest risk for serious illness.

“While West Nile is rarely life-threatening, it can be occasionally serious,” Dr. Cameron Kaiser, county public health officer said. It’s spread only by mosquito bites.

There were 33 human cases reported during 2017 in Riverside County. There has not been a death from the illness since 2015.

Story Date: June 20, 2018