West Nile virus (WNV) and St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) are prevalent in Kern County. Since its detection in 2004, WNV has been affecting residents of Kern County every year. Outbreaks of SLEV occurred in San Joaquin valley from 1945 to 1959. Currently, the human cases of SLEV are low. However, the virus is still present among mosquito populations in the county, and prevention measures are required for the health and safety of people and livestock, especially horses.

Learn more about signs and symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, and national/statewide/countywide statistics by clicking the following links:

WNV: National, California

SLEV: National, California