Friday, 7 August 2026, 23:03
Kern County Public Health has confirmed the county's first human case of West Nile virus of 2026. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions as mosquito season reaches its peak.
According to reports from KERO 23ABC and KBAK/KBFX Bakersfield Now, the case was confirmed by Kern County Public Health. Both outlets list the same warning signs: the virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito and is most active during summer and early fall.
Officials say about 1 in 5 people infected will develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, or a rash. Fewer than 1% of infected individuals develop severe neurological illness, which can include high fever, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, or disorientation.
Kern County Public Health advises residents to limit outdoor activity around dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. Long sleeves, long pants, and EPA-registered insect repellent can reduce bite risk.
Around the home, people should empty standing water from flowerpots, birdbaths, fountains, pet bowls, and other containers. Pools should be maintained and circulating, and window and door screens should be in good repair.
Kern County sits in the southern San Joaquin Valley, where hot summer weather and irrigated agriculture create conditions for mosquito activity. Bakersfield, the county seat, is among the areas covered by local mosquito and vector control efforts. Residents who see excessive mosquito activity can contact their local vector control district.
Last year, Kern County reported 21 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus, according to both KERO and Bakersfield Now. The annual pattern usually starts in late summer and can continue into early fall.
Public health officials encourage anyone with symptoms consistent with West Nile virus to contact a healthcare provider. Removing standing water and using repellent remain the most effective ways to limit the spread of the disease.
