The first person to die from complications of West Nile Virus in Butte County this year was reported by health officials today.
It’s the third West Nile Virus-related death reported in California this year, with activity increasing across the state.
According to the Butte County Public Health Department, the county accounts for a third of the state’s cases — six of California’s 18 reported infections this year.
Lisa Almaguer, a public information officer with the department, said in an email despite the increase in local virus activity, the current numbers aren’t unusual for this time of year.
Almaguer said Butte County typically sees between five and 20 symptomatic cases that are tested each year, and it’s also not uncommon to record a death from the virus.
“At this point we aren't seeing case counts outside of what we've seen during other recent West Nile Virus seasons,” Almaguer wrote.
Public Health says 80 percent of people infected with West Nile Virus won’t develop symptoms. But some people can become seriously ill.
Adults over 50 have a higher risk of complications and people with diabetes or high blood pressure are at greater risk. The department said the Butte County resident who died was between 80 and 90 years old.
The virus is spread by mosquitos. To prevent getting bitten, health officials recommend using EPA-registered insect repellants and those that contain DEET. They also advise wearing clothes that cover the skin if outside during the dusk and dawn hours, which is when mosquitoes are most likely to bite.
Public Health also recommends draining standing water around your property. Mosquitos lay their eggs in still water and can breed in even small amounts.
