September 9 , 2009

Artesia News

Nine West Nile virus positive mosquito samples found

 

Los Angeles, CA - West Nile virus activity continues to rise as teh Southland faces another heat wave. The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District has confirmed 13 more West Nile virus positive mosquito samples and two additional positive dead birds this week, with four samples each collected from Los Feliz and Panorama City, one collected in Silver Lake, one in Granada Hills, and two each in Sunland and Whittier.

The Los Feliz area is home to popular tourist attractions such as the L.A. Zoo and Griffith Park.  The District confiremd one mosquito sample in Los Feliz earlier this summer in June, bringing the total number of reported positive mosquito samples to five for that area this year.

In contrast to the sample found in June, the recently identified mosquiotoes are a species that will bite humans and thus can transmit West Nile virus to people.  Susanne Kluh, Director of Scientific-Technical Services, reminds residents of the importance of avoiding mosquito bites.  "With the onset of another heat wave, it is extremely important that people remember to either have properly maintained screens, or to keep windows and doors shut during the evening and night hours to keep mosquitoes out of their houses."

West Nile virus warning signs have been posted in affected areas to alert residents and visitors of the increased health risk.  These locations are routinely monitored and treated year-round, but increased surveillance and inspection will be conducted to locate any other mosquito breeding sources.

The District would like to remind residents to take an active role in protecting themselves and their families by doing the following:

  1. Dump out and turn over containers that have standing water to eliminate possible mosquito breeding sources around your home.
  2. Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
  3. Wear light-colored, long, loose clothing, such as long sleeve shirts and pants when outdoors.  Keep in mind tha tmosquitoes can bite through thin or tight clothes.
  4. Stay indoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
  5. Apply approved insect repellent whenever you are outdoors, even for a short period of time.  Choose a repellent based on the anticipated udration of your activity.  Remember, when you are sweating, physically active, or getting wet, some repellents may not last long.

The public is encouraged to report dead birds to help with West Nile virus surveillance and control efforts, as birds play an important role in maintaining and spreading the virus.  The California Department of Public Health's toll-free hotline is (877) WNV-BIRD and website is www.westnile.ca.gov.

For more information, please call teh Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562) 944-9656 or visit www.glacvcd.org.