The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) has received notification of a human death caused by West Nile virus in Fresno County and has also received notification of a positive Saint Louis Encephalitis virus case.

As of Aug. 21, FCDPH has reported 26 positive human cases of West Nile this year, and that number is expected to increase.

“This tragic death from West Nile virus and this severe illness from St. Louis Encephalitis in Fresno County are strong reminders that everyone should increase efforts to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” said Dr. Ken Bird, Fresno County deputy health officer. “August and September are peak periods of West Nile virus transmission in Fresno County.

At this time, FCDPH is collaborating with Fresno County mosquito abatement districts and the Central California Blood Center to increase awareness of mosquito activity.