Placer County sees 1st human West Nile virus case; Sacramento area hits 4 deaths

Placer County on Wednesday reported its first human West Nile virus case this season as statewide cases “soar,” reaching more than four times the number of cases this time last year, according to the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District. This is the first human case in the county in 2026 , though the mosquito-borne disease itself was first detected in June, the control district said in a news release. A total of nine dead birds and 112 mosquito samples collected in the county have tested positive for the virus, which is the most common and serious vector-borne disease in California. Roughly 5% of people infected develop symptoms including fever, headaches, body aches, nausea and vomiting. More severe neurological symptoms, which affect fewer people, can lead to hospitalization and death. The Placer County resident may have contracted the virus in another county, the release said. “West Nile virus continues to pose a real risk in our region, even for people who may feel perfectly healthy,” said Dr. Rob Oldham, director of Placer County Health and Human Services. “Most infections are mild, but serious illness can occur, which is why taking steps to avoid mosquito bites is essential.”

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