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Long Beach Reports Increase in West Nile Virus Cases
By Staff Writer
Published on Fri, Sep 4, 2026
The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) is reporting an increase in West Nile virus (WNV) cases. The first human case of the year was reported in June—since the start of 2026, 16 human cases have been reported in Long Beach as of Aug. 28.
Of these cases, 69% involved neuroinvasive disease, a severe form of illness that affects the brain or nervous system, and 81% required hospitalization. This is the highest number of human cases identified in Long Beach since 2014, when 56 cases were reported. WNV cases are also elevated statewide compared with last year and the previous five-year average.
Health officials expect WNV activity to continue through early fall, with cases typically peaking in September.
WNV is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms—however those who do may develop fever, body aches, rash, nausea, vomiting and headache. Elderly people and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness.
Residents are urged to take the following precautions:
- Prevent mosquito bites by applying insect repellent with EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or lemon eucalyptus according to the label directions before going outside.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants if spending time outside at dawn and dusk. WNV-carrying mosquitoes are most active during those times.
- Install or repair door and window screens.
- Dump, drain and scrub containers that collect standing water around your home.
- Flush and clean outdoor drains regularly with a hose to prevent stagnant water from pooling.
- Remove debris, trash and dirt around the exterior of drains, gutters and curbs to allow water to flow.
- Avoid bare-handed contact with dead birds. Report dead birds online or call 877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).
The Health Department continues to conduct enhanced disease surveillance and is working closely with regional vector control agencies to reduce mosquito activity.
