Prevention Measures to Protect Children from West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus Cases Surge in California Amid Climate Shifts

West Nile virus infections in California reached a five-year high in 2026, with Southern California reporting the highest concentrations, including East Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and Long Beach. Warmer winters and unseasonably wet weather, linked to El Niño patterns, have extended mosquito activity year-round, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

Climate Patterns Drive Mosquito Activity

Unseasonably warm, rainy, and humid weather has created ideal conditions for mosquitoes to thrive. Milder winters allow mosquito populations to persist beyond traditional seasons.

Children at Risk: Symptoms and Prevention

Most children infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but 20% may develop West Nile fever, characterized by fever, headache, and body aches. Less than 1% face severe neurological complications, such as encephalitis, requiring immediate medical attention. Dr. Michael Smit, MD, MSPH, who serves as a hospital epidemiologist and Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, highlights the importance of prevention strategies, especially for young children. “To protect yourself from mosquito bites and West Nile virus infections, please follow advice that can be found on the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and California Department of Public Health websites,” Dr. Smit says.

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Prevention Strategies for Families

Health officials recommend using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or 2-undecanone. For children, lower concentration formulas (e.g., 10% DEET) are advised, as they provide up to two hours of protection. Additional measures include wearing long sleeves, eliminating standing water, and treating clothing with permethrin. EPA-approved repellents are confirmed to be safe and effective, even for women who are pregnant and breastfeeding.

FAQ: Understanding West Nile Virus in California

What is the risk of West Nile virus in children?

Most infections remain mild, though less than 1% of infections affect the central nervous system and cause West Nile encephalitis, West Nile meningitis, or West Nile virus acute flaccid myelitis.

How effective are EPA-approved repellents?

EPA-approved repellents are confirmed to be safe and effective, even for women who are pregnant and breastfeeding.

What areas have the highest infection rates?

Southern California has seen the highest infection rates, with East Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and parts of the South Bay such as Long Beach and Cerritos being particularly affected.

Pro Tips: Protecting Your Family From Mosquitoes

1. Check for standing water daily, especially after rain. 2. Use stroller nets and dress children in long sleeves during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk). 3. Apply permethrin-treated clothing for extended protection. 4. Use insect netting on strollers, carseats, or playpens when outdoors. Dress babies and children in loose-fitting long sleeves and pants. Layer clothing when possible. Install screens on open windows and check for holes. Treat clothing with permethrin.