Valley man dies of West Nile virus
BY SUSAN ABRAM, Staff Writer
Article Last Updated: 08/17/2007 11:17:05 AM PDT
A San Fernando Valley man in his 80s is the first to die this year of West Nile virus in Los Angeles County, health officials said today.
The man, whose identity was unknown, suffered from other chronic health problems, so health officials said they do not know the extent to which the virus contributed to his death.
Two other San Fernando Valley residents have been infected with the virus, though they are recovering, health officials said. An additional resident from Los Angeles, also has been confirmed.
"The elderly and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of complications and death from West Nile Virus than others," said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, Director of Public Health.
The San Fernando Valley has become this year's West Nile virus hotbed, vector control officials have said, and California's rate of human infections lead the nation.
The virus is passed on to humans by infected mosquitos.
Health officials recommend residents of all ages to take precautions, such as avoiding mosquitoes, removing pools of stagnant water around their homes, and using a repellant containing DEET when outdoors in mosquito prone areas, especially around dawn or dusk.