Officials from the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) recommends residents keep insect repellent nearby as the season progresses.
This past week, GLACVCD confirmed additional West Nile Virus activity for the first time this year in the following cities or communities:
• Burbank
• Canyon Country
• Cerritos
• Eagle Rock
• La Mirada
• North Hills
• North Hollywood
• Santa Fe Springs
“As we continue into summer, we can expect more mosquito and virus activity,” said Levy Sun, the district’s public information officer. “If you wish to be bite-free, act now to prevent mosquito breeding.”
Vector control recommends that residents eliminate all standing water sources from properties, and report mosquito problems and inoperable swimming pools/ponds to the District promptly.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. In rare instances, West Nile virus can be transmitted through blood transfusion, organ transplants, and from mother to fetus and breast feeding infants. Pregnant and nursing mothers are encouraged to avoid mosquitoes.
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 become severely ill. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis, and possibly death.
Currently there is no vaccination for humans.
Residents experiencing mosquito problems during the day or at night, even after dumping all standing water, can receive help from the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562) 944-9656 or visit www.ReportMosquitoes.org.