The Greater Los Angeles Vector Control District (GLACVCD) is continuing to remind residents that the threat of West Nile virus (WNV) is still widespread in Los Angeles County. Last week, GLACVCD confirmed WNV-positive test results for 31 mosquito samples.
“The fact that mosquitoes are still active in autumn surprises a lot of residents,” said Levy Sun, GLACVCD’s public information officer. “That is why we continue to monitor mosquito populations and conduct disease surveillance. But residents need to know that this is a shared responsibility.”
GLACVCD recommends people use mosquito repellents shown to be most effective, specifically those containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Repellents should always be applied according to label directions. Doors and window screens must be used and in good repair to keep mosquitoes out of the home.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no cure for West Nile virus. One in five persons infected with West Nile virus will exhibit symptoms. Symptoms usually occur between five and 15 days and can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea or a skin rash. These symptoms can last for several weeks to months. One in 150 people infected with the virus will require hospitalization. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma and paralysis. Death is also a possibility.
The public is encouraged to report dead birds to help with West Nile virus surveillance and control efforts because birds play an important role in maintaining and spreading the virus. Visit westnile.ca.gov to report dead birds.
For more information, contact the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562) 944-9656 or visit glacvcd.org .
Source: GLACVCD
