Ventura County Confirms 1st 2026 West Nile-Positive Mosquitoes in Fillmore

3 articles · Updated · NBC Los Angeles · Jul 8

Ventura County said mosquitoes collected in Fillmore on June 17 became the county’s first 2026 sample confirmed positive for West Nile virus.
No human West Nile cases have been identified in the county this year, but health officials said the virus is established locally and more positive mosquito samples are expected.
Residents were urged to cut exposure by draining standing water, repairing window and door screens, wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk, and using EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin.
Officials also warned that West Nile can affect horses, while the county is taking mosquito-control steps including a complaint hotline and mosquito-eating fish for unattended pools and ponds.