This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
West Nile virus strikes 3 in Riverside County
A field sample of mosquitoes that could carry West Nile Virus.
(
David McNew/Getty Images
)
Listen
0:52
West Nile virus strikes 3 in Riverside County
West Nile virus strikes 3 in Riverside County
Riverside County is reporting its first confirmed human cases of West Nile virus this year. Public health officials say there say three women contracted the mosquito-borne illness last month.
None of women are related to one another, and each fell ill in different locations.
A 44-year-old woman from Corona got sick last month and spent some time in the hospital. A 63-year-old woman from Norco also checked into a hospital after she was infected. Another woman, age 36, from Beaumont also fell ill and is recovering at home.
The three represent the first confirmed human cases of West Nile in the county in two years. In 2009 the virus sickened five people, killing three of them.
Mosquito bites transmit the seasonal virus that can cause severe flu-like symptoms and even death. Older people are most at risk, but it’s not uncommon for healthy people in their 30s and 40s to become infected and suffer debilitating long-term symptoms.
Public health officials have confirmed about 50 human cases of the virus in California so far this year.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
