NewsNBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalJuly 2, 2026United States
West Nile Virus Detected in Orange County Mosquitoes
Health officials have confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes across ten Orange County cities. Residents are advised to take preventative measures, such as using insect repellent and removing stagnant water, to reduce the risk of infection.
Read the full story at NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalWhy It Matters
Residents in ten Orange County cities face an increased risk of West Nile virus exposure, requiring immediate preventative actions like using repellent and eliminating standing water to avoid mosquito bites.
Key Facts
- West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in 10 Orange County cities.
- The 10 affected cities are Newport Beach, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Cypress, Fullerton, and Westminster.
- Mosquito activity levels in Orange County are currently significantly higher than the five-year average.
- No human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Orange County so far this year.
- Last year, the agency recorded 186 mosquito pools infected with the virus and four human infections.
- Vector control officials have not yet initiated truck-based spraying.
- The agency is primarily observing 'southern house mosquitoes,' which are active at dawn and dusk.
- Officials warn of 'ankle biter' mosquitoes that are active during the day and can breed in very small amounts of water.
- Residents are advised to use insect repellent containing 30% DEET for 'ankle biter' mosquitoes.
- Recommended preventative steps include using fans to deter mosquitoes, maintaining window screens, and emptying stagnant water weekly.
Who's Mentioned
locationNewport Beach“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationHuntington Beach“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationWestminster“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationSeal Beach“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationGarden Grove“City where infected mosquitoes were found”organizationOrange County Mosquito and Vector Control District“The agency responsible for monitoring and controlling mosquito populations in th”locationCosta Mesa“City where infected mosquitoes were found”personBrian Brannon“Spokesman for the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District”locationFullerton“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationSanta Ana“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationCypress“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationBuena Park“City where infected mosquitoes were found”