Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus have been discovered in Los Angeles County for the first time this year.
The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District said Saturday the mosquitoes were recovered from a trap near Winnetka in the San Fernando Valley.
“While the presence of West Nile virus in our communities is not uncommon, this early detection is critical for all residents to take preventive actions,” said Steve Vetrone, director of scientific services for the Vector Control District. A prepared statement. “We urge everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites and remove standing water around their homes where mosquitoes breed.”
The primary transmitter of West Nile virus in California is Culex mosquito Mosquitoes become infected by sucking the blood of infected birds. The disease is usually transmitted to humans through mosquito bites.
About 20% of people infected with West Nile virus develop symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, rash and fatigue. In rare cases, the infection can cause severe inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. People 60 and older are at higher risk for complications.
There is currently no human vaccine against West Nile virus. Public health officials say the best way to protect yourself is to wear repellent and long sleeves and long pants in mosquito-infested areas.
It also helps eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. Experts recommend emptying standing water from rain gutters, buckets, flower pots, or any other area where water can accumulate for more than a week.
Neglected green water swimming pools can also be reported to local vector control districts for treatment.
Experts warn that record-breaking rainfall in California could lead to a surge in mosquito populations and an increase in West Nile virus.
According to the California Mosquito-Borne Virus Surveillance and Response Plan, there were 461 cases of West Nile virus infection in California last year, including 19 deaths.
The number of mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus in the Golden State increased by about 78% between 2013 and 2023, the plan said.
So far this year, 25 mosquito samples carrying West Nile virus have been reported in California, up from five at the same time last year, the data shows. Of those 25, 18 were found in Riverside County.
The state also reported 17 dead birds carrying the virus, up from 14 at the same time last year.
