Michael Colleran, DDS, died Oct. 25 at the age of 63 after a two-months-long battle with West Nile virus, The Tribune reported Oct. 31.
Dr. Colleran operated a multi-service dental practice in San Luis Obispo, Calif.
Dr. Colleran contracted West Nile virus shortly after visiting Anaheim, Calif., at the end of the summer. His death comes as the state experiences a spike in activity for the virus. More than 500 people have tested positive for West Nile this year, and Dr. Colleran is one of 29 people who have died of the virus in 2026.
Dr. Colleran’s practice is now up for sale. Other local dental professionals have volunteered to serve patients until the practice is sold.
The dentist’s family also started a GoFundMe to help cover medical bills and business loans.
