Courtesy CDC
BAKERSFIELD, CA (KUZZ) — The Kern County Public Health Department has reported the county’s first human case of West Nile virus this year.
The virus is spread by infected mosquitoes, which are most active during the summer and early fall.
Terry Knight of Kern Vector and Mosquito Control recommends that residents inspect their yards for standing water at least twice a week, where mosquitoes can breed.
“The mosquito that is bothering you is a residential mosquito, and it is a container breeder. That mosquito does not need very much water, a quarter-cup of water inside any container where water’s going to stand for five days or more can create a back yard or front yard mosquito problem.”
Residents are also advised to properly maintain swimming pools, wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, and use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
The Health Department reported Friday that Kern County had 21 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus in 2025.
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