West Nile: LA County sees first death of the year from mosquito-borne virus

LOS ANGELES (CNS) -- Los Angeles County health officials Wednesday confirmed the first death due to West Nile virus in the county this year.

The patient was described only as an "elderly resident'' of the South Los Angeles area. The person was hospitalized and died from West Nile virus-associated neuro-invasive disease.

"West Nile virus continues to be a serious health threat to residents in Los Angeles County,'' county Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis said in a statement.

"We encourage residents to check for items that can hold water and breed mosquitoes, both inside and outside their homes, and to cover, clean or clear out those items. Residents should protect themselves from diseases spread by mosquitoes by using EPA-registered mosquito repellent products, especially during the peak mosquito season, which lasts from June to November in Los Angeles County.''

RELATED: Orange County child recovering from West Nile virus

Health and vector control officials urged residents to take whatever steps they can to avoid attracting mosquitoes, including:

A total of five human cases of the virus have been confirmed so far this year in the county Department of Public Health's coverage area, which excludes Long Beach and Pasadena.

RELATED: Angelenos dealing with a tough mosquito season this year

It's the time of year when Southern Californians get bit often by mosquitoes - especially the Aedes, which like to sneak around your ankles during the day.