Second West Nile Virus Related Death In Orange County Confirmed

(Santa Ana) – The Orange County Health Care Agency has received state confirmation of the second West Nile Virus related death of an Orange County resident.

The victim is an 83-year-old woman who was hospitalized in August for treatment of encephalitis. She passed away in September. Initial test results for West Nile Virus (WNV) infection were negative. However, Health Care Agency staff requested that additional specimens be tested, and results confirming WNV infection were received from the California Department of Health Services on October 4.

“This death is another tragic reminder that West Nile Virus is an illness that we should all take very seriously,” said Dr. Hildy Meyers, Public Health Epidemiology Medical Director. “While cooler weather should result in fewer mosquitoes, we still urge the public to continue taking precautions against mosquitoes to prevent West Nile Virus infection.” This is the 19th death attributed to West Nile Virus in California this year. As of October 5, the total number of confirmed cases of WNV infection in Orange County is 46.

Recommended WNV precautions include:

• Eliminating any standing water from your property to reduce mosquito breeding

• Using insect repellent containing DEET, always following label directions

• Making sure your window and door screens are in good condition

• Limiting outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active

• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, especially at dusk and dawn.

Fewer than one out of every 150 people who develop WNV infection become extremely ill. About 80% of all people with WNV infection will have no symptoms, while up to 20% will experience mild to moderate symptoms that may include fever, headache, nausea, body aches and skin rash. People 50 years of age and older and those with chronic health conditions are considered to be at higher risk of developing severe illness. More information about West Nile Virus is available on the Health Care Agency’s website at www.ochealthinfo.com.

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