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Officials: O.C. could see its worst West Nile virus season in county history
ABC7 Los Angeles • • health
Key Points:
- Orange County is experiencing unprecedented levels of West Nile virus activity in mosquitoes, with 206 positive samples recorded so far in 2026, surpassing last year's total.
- Mosquito traps in 16 cities, especially in the northwestern areas like Fullerton, Anaheim, and Buena Park, have tested positive for the virus, prompting increased monitoring and treatment efforts.
- Despite the rise in infected mosquitoes, there have been no confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in the county to date.
- Officials urge residents to use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing during dawn and dusk, and eliminate standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding and bites.
- The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District plans to expand trapping and treatment as needed to manage the growing virus threat throughout the mosquito season.
