The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) on Thursday announced the county’s first West Nile virus positive mosquito samples of the year in the district’s service area.
In a release, the GLACVCD said the positive samples were collected from mosquito traps in Bellflower, Studio City and Tarzana, which confirmed the presence of the virus in mosquito populations within those communities. A dead bird located in Valley Village has been confirmed positive for West Nile virus.
In a release, Susanne Kluh, director of Scientific-Technical Services at GLACVCD, said West Nile virus is detected every summer.
“This virus is spread through our bird population and transmitted to humans through the bite an infected mosquito,” she said.
District officials warned that because there is no human vaccine for West Nile virus, residents should be proactive against mosquito bites by wearing insect repellent.
“Our agency will continue monitoring disease activity and treat affected areas to prevent a disease outbreak,” said Anais Medina Diaz, public information officer for GLACVCD. “But it is very important residents take precautions against mosquitoes and monitor for any symptoms of West Nile virus if they experience mosquito bites while outdoors during dusk and dawn.”
Residents are encouraged to reduce the threat of West Nile virus by:
· Eliminating standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs or anything that holds water for more than a week.
· Ensuring swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
· Wearing EPA-recommended insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.
For more information, residents can contact the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at 562-944-9656 or visit www.glacvcd.org.