Illustration via state of California

The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) confirmed Monday Fresno County’s first West Nile virus (WNV) human fatality of 2025.

To date this year, FCDPH has reported five additional positive human cases of the virus, with more cases expected through the end of October.

The death marks the third in the state this year, with an additional 43 conformed human WNV cases. Since its identification in California in 2003, WNV has infected more than 8,000 individuals, causing over 400 deaths.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of this individual. We need to stay vigilant as mosquitoes may continue to test positive for WNV in the County. The infected mosquitoes may  cause  severe illnesses, including WNV infection, which can require hospitalization and can result in  death,” said FCDPH Interim Health Officer Dr. Rais Vohra. “It is very important that we take steps to minimize mosquito bites, especially when there is an increase in mosquito activity during these warmer temperatures.”

Often accompanied by a fever, WNV also often includes symptoms such as headache, body aches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes and rash.

The virus can be transmitted by mosquitoes after biting infected birds. Mosquitoes can then bite and potentially infect humans and other animals.

The FCDPH recommends residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and potential WNV infection by:

• Applying EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon or eucalyptus or IR 3535. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so residents should pay extra attention to potential exposure during these times.
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• Ensuring that doors and windows are installed with tight-fitting screens to prevent mosquito entry, and repair or replace screens containing holes.
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• Eliminate standing water and containers that can hold water.
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• Contact mosquito abatement districts to report hazardous, mosquito-breeding conditions including poorly maintained swimming pools or water features that appear green.

 

Residents can also visit www.fresnocountymosquito.org for additional information. For information on WNV activitiy in the state, and to report dead birds, visit the California WNV website or call 1-877-WNV-BIRD.