FIRST WEST NILE VIRUS RELATED  DEATH OF 2025 IN KINGS COUNTY

HANFORD – The Kings County Department of Public Health (KCDPH) has received confirmation of the first West Nile virus (WNV) associated death of a Kings County resident in 2025. The first case of WNV infection in Kings County this year was reported on July 10, 2025, and there has been a total of three confirmed cases, including one death, in Kings County this year.

“We are deeply saddened to report the death of a Kings County resident from West Nile virus,” said Heather Campos, Assistant Director of KCDPH. “This unfortunate loss is a stark reminder of the potential severity of WNV. We urge all residents to take precautions against mosquito bites, especially by removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed.”

Most people who are infected with WNV have no symptoms or only mild non-specific flu-like illness. However, in some individuals, especially the elderly, the disease can cause severe neurologic illness. Symptoms of severe disease include fever, headache, stiff neck, rash, joint pain, disorientation, and altered level of consciousness.

Residents can contact the Kings Mosquito Abatement District (KMAD) if they have a mosquito problem, report a neglected swimming pool (green pool), or if they need assistance in eliminating mosquito breeding sources. To contact KMAD please call (559) 584-3326.  Residents may also request services through their website at www.kingsmosquito.net.

Kings County Department of Public Health (KCDPH) recommends that individuals protect against mosquito bites by practicing the “Three Ds”:

1.           DEET – Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus, or Insect Repellent 3535 (IR3535) according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. Insect repellents should be used according to label instructions for children.

2.           DAWN AND DUSK – Mosquitoes that transmit WNV usually bite in the early morning and evening, so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

3.           DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property by emptying flowerpots, old car tires, buckets, and other containers that can collect water. If you know of a swimming pool that is not being properly maintained, please contact your local mosquito and vector control agency.

Additional information regarding West Nile virus may be found at:  https://westnile.ca.gov/