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Mosquitoes are thriving in L.A.'s miserable humidity, worsening the spread of West Nile virus
Los Angeles Times • • health
Key Points:
- Southern California is experiencing a significant rise in West Nile virus cases, attributed to record-breaking humidity and heat fueled by El Niño conditions, which extend mosquito lifespans and increase transmission risk.
- Los Angeles County has reported 100 West Nile virus cases and five deaths this year, a sharp increase from 22 cases and two deaths in the previous year, with many patients suffering neuroinvasive disease that can cause severe brain inflammation.
- The city of Long Beach has reported 42 cases, including 26 neuroinvasive cases, marking its highest number since 2017, prompting enhanced mosquito control efforts and public health outreach.
- Experts link the surge in cases to warm, humid weather conditions that favor mosquito breeding and activity, with climate change and warming temperatures contributing to a nationwide rise in mosquito-borne diseases.
- Health officials emphasize that mosquito season is ongoing through October, urging residents to take protective measures, as there is no specific treatment for West Nile virus and severe cases can be fatal.
