California is enduring its highest West Nile virus activity in five years, driven by intensive spikes in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Across the state, 452 human infections and 29 deaths were recorded through October 23, 2026, marking a severe surge in mosquito-borne illnesses.
Health officials nationwide emphasize that older adults face the highest risk of severe, life-threatening neurological complications from the disease.
Southern California Hotspots Drive State to a Five-Year High
Nowhere in California has the virus hit harder than in Los Angeles and Orange counties, which combined account for at least 68% of the state’s total human infections. In Orange County, officials logged 68 cases and seven deaths by late October—the highest death toll the county has seen in over a decade. Los Angeles County recorded 279 infections and 17 deaths, a steep rise from the previous year’s 22 cases and two deaths.
Yolo County has reported its first West Nile virus death of 2026 as mosquito activity increases across the county and California. https://t.co/jMwHPuLKil
Loss and Impact Across Communities in California and New Jersey
Among the victims in Southern California was 88-year-old Richard Mason of Torrance, an active resident who walked his dog and traveled frequently before falling ill. After attending a wedding, Mason developed a fever, grew too weak to leave his bed, and died on September 28, 2026.
In Templeton, a 63-year-old resident named Mike Colleran also died from the virus, prompting community support for his family. Meanwhile, across the country, New Jersey reported its first West Nile virus fatality of the year on October 2, 2026, involving a resident over 60 living in the southern part of the state.
Jonathan Mason said that his father’s death was shocking and that the family had always thought they had more time.
Public Health Warnings and Prevention Measures
Health authorities across affected regions continue to urge residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites by applying insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and eliminating standing water around homes. Dr. Anissa Davis, medical director of communicable disease control at the Orange County Health Care Agency, likened the precaution to putting on a seatbelt when stepping outside for a walk.
In New Jersey, Health Commissioner Raynard E. Washington issued statements extending condolences and urging communities to take necessary steps to prevent mosquito bites and reduce local populations. Initiatives like Bergen County’s Bergen Bites Back
campaign continue working to curb mosquito activity, while officials monitor additional suspected cases under investigation.
In New Jersey, Monmouth County recorded six cases, Mercer County had four, and Camden County reported three, contributing to a statewide total of 26 cases where eighteen of the affected individuals were people aged 60 and older. Across the state, nineteen individuals developed neurological illness.
On August 23, she found him collapsed on the floor of their home and called an ambulance.
In Templeton, Mike Colleran’s wife, Cyndee Colleran, faced substantial medical bills following his death, leading to the creation of a GoFundMe fundraiser to support her.
European health authorities have also tracked significant viral activity. As of October 7, 2026, EU countries reported 1,715 locally acquired human cases of West Nile virus infection, the highest number ever reported. Italy remains the most affected nation with 748 cases, while Greece and France reported their highest numbers of human cases ever. Ole Heuer, Head of Unit at ECDC, noted that while the occurrence varies considerably from year to year and is difficult to predict, agencies must ensure preparedness, earlier detection, and greater awareness.
Recent detections in Belgium and the Netherlands indicate that the virus is circulating further north. The Netherlands reported 59 human cases, while Belgium recorded 15 human cases representing the first locally acquired infections in that country. Céline Gossner, senior expert at ECDC, emphasized that the virus circulates between mosquitoes and birds, causing disease in people and horses, and requires a collaborative One Health approach uniting public health, veterinary, and environmental authorities.
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