West Nile is spreading faster than it has in 20 years. Here's how to keep yourself safe

Key Points:

• West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes are spreading rapidly across Southern California, with a significant increase in positive mosquito samples detected this year compared to recent years, prompting health officials to urge residents to take preventive measures.
• As of June 30, there have been 48 human cases nationwide, including 38 severe neuroinvasive cases, marking the highest midyear count since 2004; California has reported one human case so far, involving a Long Beach resident hospitalized with neuroinvasive illness.
• The virus poses the greatest risk to people over 50 and those with preexisting health conditions, with symptoms ranging from mild fever and body aches to severe neurological damage or death in about 1% of cases.
• Preventive actions recommended include wearing insect repellent containing DEET or similar ingredients, wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito activity times (dawn and dusk), eliminating standing water around homes, and supporting local mosquito control efforts.
• West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes have been detected in numerous cities across Los Angeles and Orange counties, including Pico Rivera, Long Beach, Newport Beach, Fullerton, and Anaheim, highlighting widespread mosquito activity in the region.