Southern California on high alert as West Nile cases double
Key Points:
- West Nile virus is surging in Orange County, with 38 positive mosquito samples detected across 13 cities, and Fullerton identified as the hotspot with 15 cases, nearly 40% of the total.
- In response, mosquito control crews are conducting overnight spraying in a 4.5-square-mile area of Fullerton from Thursday through Saturday to reduce adult mosquito populations.
- The virus, transmitted through infected mosquito bites, can cause mild symptoms or severe neurological illnesses such as encephalitis or meningitis, particularly in older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
- Officials urge residents to eliminate standing water, maintain screens, use insect repellent, and report neglected pools or heavy mosquito activity to help control the mosquito population.
- Residents in affected areas have been notified of the spraying, with some reporting a significant increase in mosquito activity impacting their outdoor activities.