Artesia News

Reports of West Nile Virus positive birds on the rise in Southern California

Los Angeles, CA- Los Angeles County has reported the highest number of West Nile virus (WNV) positive dead birds so far this year when compared to all other counties in California. Vector control districts in L.A. County have reported 26 of the 69 West Nile virus positive dead birds that have been recorded statewide. Within one week, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) has identified an additional eight West Nile virus positive dead birds bringing the District's total to 21 for the year. Of the eight new WNV positive dead birds reported, four were collected in Cerritos (zip code 90703), two in Los Angeles (zip code 91423), one in La Mirada (90638) and one in Northridge (zip code 91325).

GLACVCD also confirmed an additional 11 WNV positive mosquito samples this week, bringing the District's total to 36 positive mosquito samples so far this year. Of the 11 WNV positive mosquito samples, four were found in Studio City (zip code 91604), two in Cerritos (zip code 90703), two in Pico Rivera (zip code 90660), one in Norwalk (zip code 90650), one in Whittier (zip code 90604), and one in Encino (zip code 91436). This is the first incidence of West Nile virus activity for Pico Rivera, Norwalk and Northridge for 2011. Statewide, a total of 89 West Nile virus positive mosquito samples have been reported for the year.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. A mosquito may acquire the virus from feeding on an infected bird. Some birds, such as American crows, become debilitated and are unable to fly a few days before they die from West Nile virus giving mosquitoes in the area ample opportunity to feed on the bird and acquire the virus.

"Statistically there is a higher likelihood of West Nile virus positive mosquitoes being found in areas srrounding West Nile virus positive dead birds," says Public Information Officer Crystal Brown. "There is no way to confirm exactly where a bird was infected because it can travel long distances. Because of the widespread virus activity in birds and mosquitoes throughout the District, all residents living within the Greater Los Angeles County area are at risk of contracting West Nile virus and should be proactive in preventing mosquito bites this summer."

Mosquitoes in Southern California are most active between dusk and dawn, and outdoor activity should be avoided during these times when possible. If the outdoor enthusiast chooses to be active during these times, wearing protective clothing such as a long-sleeve shirt and pants will help prevent mosquitoes from biting. Residents should make sure to apply insect repellent that contains EPA-registered ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin or Lemon Eucalyptus Oil. Properly-fitted screens, free from tears, on every window and door around the home will help to keep mosquitoes out.

In addition to preventing mosquito bites, residents can take an active role in reducing the threat of West Nile virus in their neighborhoods by eliminating standing water sources where mosquitoes can breed by taking the following steps:

· Inspect front and backyards. Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs or anything that holds water for more than a week to break the mosquito life cycle.

· Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained

· Change the water in pet dishes and birdbaths weekly

· Request FREE mosquitofish from GLACVCD for placement in out-of-order swimming pools, spas, and ponds to control mosquitoes
· Report any mosquito activity near vacant or foreclosed homes and abandoned swimming pools in your neighborhood

For more information about West Nile virus and our vector control services, please contact Public Information Officer Crystal Brown at the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562) 944-9656 x511 or visit www.glacvcd.org. For statewide information and statistics about West Nile virus, or to report a dead bird or squirrel, visit www.westnile.ca.gov or call 1-877-WNV BIRD.