Los Angeles County health officials have confirmed the first positive sample of West Nile virus from a mosquito trap.
The sample was collected from a trap in the Winnetka area of the San Fernando Valley, which is the first positive sample reported in the area this year.
“While the presence of West Nile Virus in our community is not unusual, this early detection serves as a critical reminder for all residents to take preventive measures,” said Steve Vetrone, director of Scientific-Technical Services for the Greater Los Angeles Area Angeles County. Control district. “We urge everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes, where mosquitoes can breed.”
Officials say the Culex mosquito, which is most active during dawn and dusk, can transmit the virus. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, it is the “primary vector for West Nile in the Midwestern and Western states.”
There is no human vaccine against the virus, so residents are urged to be proactive against mosquito bites by wearing insect repellent. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends products that contain the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or Lemon Eucalyptus oil.
Those who do become infected with the virus will generally experience no or mild symptoms, including fever, muscle aches and fatigue.
People over age 50 or with chronic medical conditions may become more seriously ill. In that case, the brain and spinal cord can be affected, leading to meningitis, encephalitis or paralysis.
Residents are urged to eliminate standing water in their yards, where mosquitoes often breed. Common places are clogged gutters, barrels, old tires, buckets or drinking troughs. Pet dishes, bird baths and other smaller containers should be replaced weekly.
They are also urged to ensure that pools and spas are properly cleaned and maintained.
Neglected water bodies found in LA County neighborhoods can be reported to a local vector control district.
