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City of Long Beach Reports First Human Case of West Nile Virus This Year

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Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) this mosquito season has been confirmed in Long Beach. According to reports from the Long Beach Health and Human Services Department, the individual, who is in their 50s, was hospitalized and diagnosed with neuro-invasive illness. They are currently recovering from the virus. This marks the first human case of WNV in Long Beach since 2023.

As of October 10, 2025, there have been a total of 60 cases of WNV reported in California this year, resulting in five deaths. While this is a decrease compared to the same time last year when 83 cases had been reported, it is still a cause for concern.

The City's Vector Control Program has been actively monitoring and addressing potential mosquito breeding grounds in an effort to prevent the spread of WNV. To date, no WNV positive mosquitoes have been detected in Long Beach.

WNV is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Symptoms may include fever, body aches, rash, nausea, vomiting and headache. While most people infected with WNV show no symptoms at all, approximately one in 150 may develop more serious illness such as brain inflammation or paralysis. Sadly, there is currently no vaccine or treatment for WNV.

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Dr. Cliff Okada, a Public Health Physician, urges residents to take precautions against mosquito bites during hot weather. This includes applying insect repellent with EPA-registered active ingredients before going outside and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. It is also important to install or repair door and window screens and eliminate standing water around homes.

Residents can also report increased mosquito activity or learn more about prevention methods by visiting longbeach.gov/mosquitoes. Additionally, any dead birds can be reported online or by calling 877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).

The Long Beach Health and Human Services Department's Vector Control Program, in partnership with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District and Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District, is actively treating areas with high mosquito populations throughout the city on a daily basis. However, it is crucial for the public to also take responsibility in reducing the mosquito population by following the recommended precautions.

For more information on how to protect yourself from mosquito bites, residents can call the Mosquito Hotline at 562.570.4132. They can also visit longbeach.gov/WNV and follow @LongBeachCity and @LBHealthDept on social media for updates.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Health Department's Public Affairs Office at HE-PublicAffairs@longbeach.gov. The Long Beach community is urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of WNV during this mosquito season.

Filed Under: Government, City

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