The California drought is causing more potentially fatal West Nile virus cases

The drought in California is likely behind an uptick in West Nile virus cases.

In 2014, there were 801 cases reported in the state, with 263 in Orange County alone. "As birds and mosquitos sought water, they came into closer contact and amplified the virus, particularly in urban areas," Karen Smith, director and state health officer of the California Department of Public Health, told the Los Angeles Times. "The lack of water could have caused some sources of water to stagnate, making the water sources more attractive for mosquitoes to lay eggs."

The virus is transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes, and symptoms include severe headaches, high fever, and confusion. Of the 2014 cases, 561 patients ended up with a neurological form of West Nile, which can cause swelling of the brain, and 31 died. Public health officials are concerned that there will be more mosquito activity this year, due to high temperatures.

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