West Nile virus activity in the San Gabriel Valley has surpassed the five-year average, with 105 virus-positive mosquito samples detected so far this year, prompting health officials Thursday to urge residents to take precautions against mosquito bites.
The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District said the positive samples were collected in cities and unincorporated communities throughout its service area. District officials said local and state agencies are also seeing higher-than-average West Nile virus activity.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito, which is most active around dusk and dawn.
Vector control technicians are monitoring and treating known mosquito sources, searching for additional sources in communities with elevated mosquito activity and increasing surveillance, according to the district.
“Although current WNV activity is higher than usual, our teams are purposely equipped to deal with this challenge,” Director of Scientific Programs Tristan Hallum said. “We strongly encourage residents to tip out any stagnant water around their homes, toss out any unused containers that can collect water, and protect themselves with mosquito repellent when outdoors during this holiday weekend.”
There is no human vaccine or cure for West Nile virus, according to the district.
Officials advised residents to eliminate standing water from rain gutters, buckets, discarded tires and other containers; properly maintain swimming pools, spas and ponds, and change water in pet dishes and birdbaths weekly.
Residents were also urged to use mosquito repellent and wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants outdoors.
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, about one in five people infected with West Nile virus develops symptoms that can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea or a skin rash. About one in 150 infected people develops severe symptoms.
People older than 50 and those with chronic health problems or compromised immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness, according to health officials.
Residents can report mosquito problems or obtain additional information from the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District at 626-814-9466.