NewsNBC4 Los Angeles — Orange CountyJuly 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 against mosquito bites as activity levels are currently higher than the five-year average.
Read the full story at NBC4 Los Angeles — Orange CountyWhy It Matters
Residents in ten Orange County cities face an increased risk of exposure to West Nile virus, requiring the use of insect repellent and the removal of stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding.
Key Facts
- West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes in 10 Orange County cities: 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 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 most active at dawn and dusk.
- Officials recommend using insect repellent containing 30% DEET to protect against 'ankle biter' mosquitoes.
- Residents are advised to dump stagnant water at least once a week, ensure window screens are intact, and use fans to deter mosquitoes.
Who's Mentioned
locationCosta Mesa“City where infected mosquitoes were found”locationWestminster“City where infected mosquitoes were found”other10“Number of cities in Orange County with positive West Nile virus infections”personBrian Brannon“Spokesman for the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District”organizationOrange County Mosquito and Vector Control District“The agency responsible for monitoring and controlling mosquito populations in th”