State’s First West Nile Virus-Positive Mosquito of 2015 Found in California

FAIRFAX, Va. (April 1, 2015) – Vector control officials announced that the first West Nile virus-positive mosquito of 2015 in California has been found in the San Fernando Valley.

The infected pool was found in mid-March and indicates West Nile virus could begin affecting the area earlier than usual this year. Last year’s first West Nile virus-positive mosquito wasn’t collected until May. According to vector control officials, a warm winter contributed to early West Nile virus activity and may increase the risk of contracting the disease this summer.

Last year was the worst year for West Nile virus in California in a decade, with 29 deaths resulting from the virus.