3 West Nile Deaths In California Should Act As Reminder Of Virus’ Threat, Officials Say
“West Nile virus can cause a deadly infection in humans, and the elderly are particularly susceptible,” said Dr. Karen Smith, California Department of Public Health director and state health officer.
Los Angeles Times:
3 Californians Have Died Of West Nile Virus This Summer, Officials Say
California health officials said Friday that three people have died of West Nile virus this summer, marking the first deaths in what could be a particularly dangerous season for the disease.
(Karlamangla, 9/1)
San Jose Mercury News:
California Reports First West Nile Virus Deaths Of 2017
The deceased lived in Kern, Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. For reasons of confidentiality, the California Department of Public Health does not provide additional patient details, such as their gender, race, age, day of death or names of hospitals that provided care. But the San Bernardino Sun reported that county health officials described the victim there as an elderly man who lived in the western part of the county and suffered from serious health problems. That’s not an uncommon description for such a victim. (Seipel, 9/1)
The Bakersfield Californian:
West Nile Virus Claims Three Lives Statewide, Including One In Kern County
“This serves as a reminder that the threat of West Nile virus should be taken seriously,” Kern County Public Health Services Director Matt Constantine said. “We strongly encourage residents to protect themselves and family members from mosquitoes.” (Pierce, 9/1)