With warmer weather on the horizon, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services is reminding the public to take proactive measures against disease-carrying mosquitoes.
While mosquito bites are often seen as little more than a nuisance, they can also carry viruses such as West Nile, Zika, dengue and St. Louis encephalitis. These disease-carrying mosquitoes are already present in the Long Beach area, according to the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services.
City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis emphasized that everyone plays a role in mosquito prevention. She recommends several steps residents can take to reduce mosquito breeding and protect their households from bites.
Here’s how residents can help:
- Remove any standing water from around the home, including buckets, plant saucers, or toys—mosquitoes only need a small amount of water (as little as a quarter inch) to lay eggs.
- Clean bird baths and pet water bowls at least once a week.
- Empty and scrub out children’s water play items, such as wading pools or water slides, after each use.
- Keep swimming pools properly maintained and make sure pool covers don’t collect water.
- Cut back on overwatering lawns or outdoor plants.
- Ensure window and door screens are secure, without any tears.
- Use insect repellent that contains DEET and is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency. DEET is considered safe for use on children over two months old and is considered safe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals when applied correctly.
To report areas of high mosquito activity or unattended pools with standing water, residents can call 562-570-4132 or submit a report online at longbeach.gov/mosquitoes.
Dead birds, which may be a sign of West Nile virus in the area, should be reported to the California Department of Public Health by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD or visiting westnile.ca.gov.
For additional information on mosquito-related health concerns and prevention, visit longbeach.gov/health and follow @LBHealthDept on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
