Butte County Public Health urges mosquito precautions after first West Nile death in 2026
Thu, August 13, 2026 at 6:28 PM
FILE PHOTO: A mosquito is shown .Butte County Public Health is urging residents to take precautions against mosquito bites following the county’s first West Nile virus death of the year.
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. —The Butte County Department of Public Health (BCPH) has confirmed on Thursday the first West Nile virus (WNV) associated death in Butte County this year. The individual, who died was believed to be between 80 and 90 years old
The death comes as West Nile virus activity continues to increase across Butte County and California. As of Aug. 13, California had confirmed 18 human cases and three deaths, including six cases in Butte County. WNV is typically active from May through October, with activity in Butte County peaking in August
Butte County Public Health is urging residents to reduce mosquito breeding areas around their homes and take precautions to prevent bites, particularly around dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active
People infected with West Nile virus generally fall into three categories. About 8 in 10 people have no symptoms, while about 1 in 5 develop a mild to moderate illness that can include fever, fatigue and body aches. Fewer than 1 in 150 people develop severe illness with neurological symptoms, such as encephalitis or meningitis. Symptoms of severe illness can last several weeks, and some effects may be permanent
Adults 50 and older and people with certain health conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure, are at greater risk of severe illness
West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds
Residents can reduce their risk by following the 3 Ds of prevention: DEET, dawn and dusk, and drain. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol or IR3535, and follow label instructions. DEET can be used on children 2 months and older
Mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active in the early morning and evening. Residents should wear protective clothing and use insect repellent when outdoors during those times. Doors and windows should also have tight-fitting screens, and any holes or tears should be repaired
Residents should also drain or remove standing water from flowerpots, tires, rain gutters, pet bowls and other containers around their property. For standing water that cannot be drained, residents can use mosquito-control products or request free mosquitofish from the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District
To report neglected swimming pools or other mosquito concerns, contact your local mosquito and vector control district at 530-342-7350 or 530-533-6038
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