LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County health officials confirmed the first West Nile virus death of 2026 this week, a San Fernando Valley resident who died after hospitalization with a severe neurological illness caused by the mosquito-borne virus, as cases in the county and across California climbed above recent averages following an unusually warm winter.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health announced the fatality on Thursday, noting that the individual developed neurological complications from a severe West Nile virus infection. No further details about the resident's age, gender or specific medical history were released. The department reported 15 documented West Nile virus infections in the county so far this year, excluding Long Beach and Pasadena, which maintain separate health departments. Of those, 14 were symptomatic, with the most recent onset dated Aug. 6. Roughly half of the infected residents lived in the San Fernando Valley.

County figures for human infections this season exceed the five-year average for the same period. Mosquito pools and dead birds have tested positive across multiple areas of Los Angeles County, signaling elevated virus activity that began earlier than typical.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends grieving the loss of a loved one due to West Nile virus," Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said in a statement. "This tragic loss is a reminder of the serious threat posed by mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus and dengue."

Davis urged residents to take protective steps, including using insect repellent containing DEET, eliminating sources of standing water where mosquitoes breed, and ensuring windows and doors have tight-fitting screens. "Small actions like these can make a big difference in preventing illness," he said.

The county's announcement coincided with a California Department of Public Health report that statewide West Nile virus........

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