Two confirmed West Nile deaths in California

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) confirmed two West Nile virus deaths in California Monday.

The two who died were from Glenn and Yuba counties.

The CDPH reports that in California there are 56 human cases of the West Nile virus in 21 counties.

They also say that over 1,600 mosquito samples from 28 counties have tested positive for the virus.

There are a few reasons for the virus spreading including climate, the types of birds and mosquitos in the area and the level of immunity in birds.

It’s spread by humans and animals being bitten by an infected mosquito.

For most people, the risk of it being serious is low, but it can cause neurological illnesses like encephalitis or meningitis.

People over 60-years-old or who have diabetes or hypertension are higher risk.

The CDPH has three main recommendations for protection.

They say to use bug spray that has Deet, picaridin, oil of lemon, eucalyptus or IR3535 in it.

People should also be more careful early in the morning and evening when the mosquitos usually bite.

Standing water is a danger too. Mosquitos lay their eggs in the water, so the CDPH suggests emptying pots and buckets as well as keeping pools maintained.