‘Prevention is the key’: Valley counties lead in West Nile Virus cases 

The public health department says this brings the total to five human cases this year.

The Kings County Department of Public Health did not release any information about the victim, only that the case was first reported back in July.

However, Fresno County Health Educator Leticia Berber says most people bitten by an infected mosquito won’t experience any symptoms. “One out of five people will show the symptoms, and most likely that person has other health effects,” she shared. 

Berber added that people with a weakened immune system, those over the age of 65, or children under five are more susceptible to symptoms. “This illness doesn’t have a vaccine and doesn’t have medication,” Berber informed. 

Severe cases can cause neurological illnesses. “If you start developing those symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, report symptoms to your doctor.”

This year, the Central Valley has led the state in the number of West Nile Virus cases. 

Tulare County currently has the most, with 13 people infected and one fatality. “That is because of the agriculture going on right now. The standing waters that are going in, that are out there in the fields, those can harbor those mosquitoes. That’s where they lay their eggs,” Berber said.

But with the colder temperatures moving in, Berber says mosquito season is coming to an end. “They hibernate in bushes and grass, and we don’t see that much activity.”

In the meantime, she suggests using EPA-registered insect repellent, making sure your doors and windows are sealed tightly, and checking for any stagnant water around your home or place of work. “Prevention is the key when it comes to this illness,” she added.

If you see a dirty pool of standing water or notice an increase in mosquitoes, you can contact your local mosquito abatement district for help.