Long Beach Reports California's First Human West Nile Virus Case of 2026
A Long Beach resident is recovering after being hospitalized with a neuroinvasive illness caused by West Nile virus, marking California’s first symptomatic human case reported this year.
Adrian Morales
- Published June 27, 2026
- Updated June 30, 2026
LONG BEACH, Calif. — The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed the city’s first human case of West Nile virus this year, making it the first symptomatic human infection reported in California during the 2026 mosquito season.
The patient was hospitalized after developing a neuroinvasive illness associated with the virus and has since been discharged and is recovering at home, according to city health officials.
The case comes as mosquito activity increases throughout Southern California, prompting public health officials to remind residents to take precautions against mosquito bites during the summer months.
First symptomatic case reported statewide
According to the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, the resident’s illness is the first confirmed symptomatic human case of West Nile virus reported anywhere in California this year.
Officials did not release the patient’s age, gender, or the location where the individual may have been exposed.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito. Infected mosquitoes have already been detected in Long Beach and other parts of California this year through routine surveillance.
Gift cards offered in exchange for firearms
Residents who participated in the event received gift cards based on the type of firearm surrendered.
Compensation included:
- $50 for non-functioning firearms
- $150 for working pistols, rifles, and shotguns
- $200 for ghost guns, including firearms without serial numbers
- $300 for assault rifles
Officials said values for certain firearms, including some 3D-printed firearms, were determined at the event.
Most infections cause no symptoms
Health officials say approximately 80% of people infected with West Nile virus never develop symptoms.
About one in five people experience a mild illness that can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Skin rash
Roughly one out of every 150 infected people develops a severe neurological illness that can affect the brain or spinal cord. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems or certain chronic health conditions are at the greatest risk for serious complications.
There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for West Nile virus.
Health officials urge residents to prevent mosquito bites
With mosquito season now underway, Long Beach health officials are encouraging residents to reduce their risk of infection by taking simple preventive measures.
The department recommends:
- Using EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wearing long sleeves and long pants when outdoors, especially around dawn and dusk.
- Repairing damaged window and door screens.
- Eliminating standing water from buckets, flowerpots, bird baths, clogged gutters, and other containers where mosquitoes can breed.
Residents are also encouraged to report dead birds and increased mosquito activity to local vector control agencies, which monitor the spread of the virus throughout the region.
Vector control efforts continue across Long Beach
The city’s Vector Control Program continues monitoring mosquito populations and treating areas where mosquito activity is detected.
Long Beach works with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District and the Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District to conduct surveillance, apply mosquito control treatments, and educate residents about preventing mosquito breeding around homes.
Officials say reducing standing water remains one of the most effective ways residents can help limit mosquito populations.
Why this matters
West Nile virus activity typically increases during California’s warmer months, with most human cases occurring between summer and early fall.
While severe illness remains relatively uncommon, public health officials say this first confirmed human case serves as a reminder that infected mosquitoes are present in the region and that residents should take preventive measures throughout mosquito season.
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