Pasadena, California: City Reports Its First Two West Nile Virus Cases of the Year as Statewide Cases Reach 452 With 29 Deaths
The Pasadena Public Health Department, in the City of Pasadena, Los Angeles County, California, reported the city's first two human cases of West Nile virus this year on October 29. Both cases meet clinical and preliminary laboratory criteria, with confirmatory testing still pending. Pasadena last reported a confirmed case in 2025.
Statewide data show that as of October 23, California had recorded 452 West Nile virus cases and 29 deaths this year across 24 counties, including 251 cases in Los Angeles County. By comparison, there were only 67 cases in 15 counties statewide at the same point last year, indicating markedly more intense transmission this season.
Health Officer Dr. Parveen Kaur and Public Health Director Manuel Carmona reminded residents that West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes. Most infections cause no symptoms, but a small share develop severe illness such as encephalitis, with older adults and people with weakened immune systems at highest risk. Residents should dump standing water in yards and on balconies weekly, discard unused water-holding containers, repair window screens, and use repellents containing DEET or picaridin outdoors.
Dead birds can be reported to California's West Nile hotline at 1-877-WNV-BIRD; dead bird surveillance is a key tool for tracking where the virus is active. The health department said it will continue sharing surveillance data with Los Angeles County and state health officials.
Source: GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 叮咬人皮肤的蚊子（资料图）。Wikimedia Commons，CC BY。 / A mosquito feeding on human skin (file photo). Via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY.
