Los Angeles is currently facing a significant surge in mosquito populations, which, according to recent reports, pose a serious health risk as cases of West Nile virus increase.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LA County DPH) reported 216 human infections of the West Nile virus (WNV) and 10 related deaths, marking a rise in infections compared to the average over the past five years, based on information released by the department.
West Nile Virus is recognized as the most prevalent and lethal mosquito-borne disease affecting Californians, as noted by the California Department of Public Health.
The Culex mosquito transmits the virus after feeding on the blood of infected birds, spreading it to humans and other creatures, according to details from the state department’s website.
Interestingly, about 20% of those infected with West Nile Virus show symptoms such as fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes. Most people experience no symptoms at all, but the fatigue and weakness can linger for months. In rare instances, roughly one in 150 cases, the infection may affect the brain or nervous system, leading to serious conditions like encephalitis or meningitis.
At the time this was published, the LA County DPH had not responded to requests for comment.
Additionally, other mosquito-borne illnesses are on the rise across the U.S., including a dengue fever outbreak in Florida.
Among the reported cases, there is a 13-year-old boy who developed Transverse Myelitis—a serious spinal cord inflammation—believed to be linked to West Nile Virus. His family shared this through a GoFundMe post on October 1, stating he is currently hospitalized at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
For the sixth consecutive year, Los Angeles has been identified as the most mosquito-infested city in the United States, according to a pest control report released by Orkin in May. Chicago and New York City followed in the second and third spots, respectively. Atlanta, which previously held the top rank for six years, now sits at fifth place. This ranking is based on the number of new residential mosquito treatments performed from March 2025 to March 2026.
Orkin’s May 5 press release remarked on the changing landscape of pest issues, indicating that a problem once mostly confined to the Southeast has become a national concern, affecting cities in various regions. They highlighted that mosquitoes can transmit serious diseases such as West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and Zika.
