San Diego City Wire

San Diego County public health officials have confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in 2024. A 71-year-old man, who had recently traveled to rural Colorado, tested positive for the virus and is currently hospitalized.

Although this case was likely contracted outside San Diego County, local authorities remind residents that West Nile virus is present in the area. Earlier this month, a dead bird found in Clairemont tested positive for the virus. The last reported human case in the county occurred in 2022.

West Nile virus primarily affects birds but can be transmitted to humans through certain mosquito species that feed on infected birds or animals before biting people. Most individuals infected with West Nile virus do not exhibit symptoms; however, about one in five may experience fever, headache, nausea, fatigue, skin rash, or swollen glands. In rare cases, approximately one out of 150 infected people may develop serious illness that could be fatal.

To prevent mosquito-borne illnesses, community members are advised to follow the County’s Prevent, Protect and Report guidelines. These measures include eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed and using mosquito fish to control larvae in backyard water sources. Protective clothing and insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 are recommended when outdoors.

Residents should ensure window and door screens are intact to keep insects out and report increased mosquito activity or potential breeding sites to Environmental Health’s Vector Control Program at (858) 694-2888 or vector@sdcounty.ca.gov.

For more information on mosquito-borne illnesses and prevention tips, visit San Diego County’s “Fight the Bite” website.