If you thought mosquito bites were just annoying, the news is not encouraging. West Nile Virus is spreading in Los Angeles and nationwide and health officials stating 2026 could be the worst season in two decades.
West Nile Virus is a disease spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who get it don’t experience any symptoms, according to CSArts-SGV nurse Eileen. Still, some people do develop symptoms, including fever, body aches, and nausea with about one in five cases showing symptoms, per the SGV Mosquito & Vector Control District. A much smaller number of people develop severe cases that can affect the central nervous system, causing encephalitis or meningitis. The SGV Mosquito & Vector Control district says that older people and people with weakened immune systems face the greatest risk of serious health complications.
West Nile Virus isn’t new to the region. “West Nile virus is a recurring concern in our region because it is endemic to our area. There is no cure or human vaccine for WNV,” said Tristan Hallum, Director of Scientific Programs, San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District. Being endemic means it’s present every mosquito season, however, this year has shown elevated activity. More than 105 mosquito samples across San Gabriel Valley have tested positive for West Nile Virus, surpassing the five year average. In LA County, health officals confirmed that at least one person has died from the virus so far this year. According to a representative of SGV’s mosquito vector control, the cause of this influx hasn’t been determined yet, and depends on many factors, including weather and varying temperatures.
Across California, all mosquito control districts are working very hard to prevent and monitor the spread of West Nile Virus. According to the San Gabriel Valley representative, samples of dead mosquitoes and birds are constantly being tested for the virus and tracked based on date and location. All districts are treating known sources, effectively slowing the spread. CSArts school nurses said “We haven’t seen a significant increase in bug bites at school. We will continue to keep an eye on things and address any concerns that come up”.
It is helpful to prevent mosquito bites to protect your health in general. SGV Vector Control advises reporting stagnant water and tossing unused containers that collect water to prevent mosquitoes from propagating. Additionally, they advise using mosquito repellant outdoors, especially at dusk and dawn when Culex mosquitoes (the main species that carries West Nile Virus) are most active. Nurse Eileen recommends using insect repellent as directed, wearing long sleeves and pants when practical, and avoiding areas with standing water.
If you’ve been bitten by a mosquito, it’s important to be aware of West Nile virus symptoms. Most bug bites are minor and can be treated by washing the area with soap and water and using a cold compress to help with itching and swelling. If a student develops fever, severe headache, unusual weakness, confusion, or a rash after mosquito exposure, they should tell a parent/guardian and contact their healthcare provider.
For most accurate West Nile Virus updates, go to the Mosquito and Vector district control website for your city. For SGV, visit sgvmosquito.org.
AI and the Future of Art