Public health officials Wednesday confirmed the first human cases of West Nile virus in Los Angeles County this year.

According to the county Department of Public Health, four people were hospitalized with the virus between late July and late August. The unidentified patients lived in the Antelope Valley, San Fernando Valley and central Los Angeles areas.

“The first human cases of West Nile virus are an important reminder that we all need to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and mosquito breeding,” Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County health officer, said in a statement. “Mosquitos thrive in hot weather, increasing the risk of bites and mosquito-borne diseases.”

Davis said people should take steps to reduce exposure to mosquitoes, such as using insect repellents, removing items that h

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