Yolo County reports first human case of West Nile Virus this year

From the Winters Express
September 24, 2020

A Yolo County resident became ill with West Nile Virus last month and is now recovering, the county reported Saturday.

This is the first human case of the mosquito-borne virus documented in the county this year. Statewide, at least 16 counties have reported human West Nile cases, affecting around 60 people. Since 2003, there have been 7,000 confirmed human cases and more than 300 deaths, according to the state.

Yolo County officials did not provide additional details about the local case, including city of residence, but West Nile activity has been found in mosquito samples and dead birds throughout the county, including in the city of Davis.

The virus is transmitted to people via the bite of infected mosquitoes, making mosquito control key to preventing spread of the illness.

Dr. Mary Ann Limbos, the county’s deputy public health officer, said Saturday the county resident diagnosed with West Nile “is now recovering,” but said the risk of contracting West Nile Virus in the county at this time of year remains.

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