from the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District
West Nile virus activity is increasing in the San Gabriel Valley. Tests conducted by the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District confirmed West Nile virus (WNV) in a sample of mosquitoes collected from the city of Arcadia and three of the District's chicken flocks located in the cities of Arcadia, Irwindale, and Monterey Park. The District routinely tests mosquitoes and chickens from flocks it maintains throughout the San Gabriel Valley as part of its disease surveillance program.
The positive WNV samples were collected from the following locations:
- Arcadia: Los Angeles County Arboretum and Santa Anita Racetrack
- Irwindale: Santa Fe Dam Recreational Area
- Monterey Park: near Garvey Ranch Park
Although this is the first confirmation of localized WNV transmission in the San Gabriel Valley, residents must assume that the virus is present and being transmitted throughout the Valley. West Nile virus has been very active in many parts of the southland this year.
"This is important information for people to consider as they prepare for the upcoming holiday weekend," said District Manager Kenn Fujioka. "Preventing West Nile virus from making you sick is as simple as preventing mosquito bites. If your holiday weekend plans include spending time outdoors, please ensure that your entire family is protected from mosquito bites."
So far this year the Los Angeles County Department of Public Healthreports a total of 46 human infections in Los Angeles County.
- 30 are listed as the more severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease (WNND)
- 5 are the milder West Nile fever (WNF)
- 11 are asymptomatic blood donors
Since only 1 in 150 infections typically result in WNND, District officials worry that WNV illness is likely far more widespread than the reported cases indicate.
August and September are peak months for WNV transmission. District officials urge residents to do their part and remove standing water from their property and report mosquito activity to the District.
When spending time outdoors, residents should follow these recomendations:
- Avoid outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most active - from dusk to dawn
- Wear light colored and tight-weaved, long sleeves and pants and apply repellent to exposed skin if outdoors during these times
- Follow the label directions on repellents carefully and visit http://www.ewg.org/research/ewgs-guide-bug-repellents for information about choosing the best repellent for you and your activity
- Do not rely on candles or 'zappers' to prevent bites. High-powered outdoor fans have been shown to be effective at deterring mosquitoes
- Ensure doors and windows are properly screened to keep mosquitoes out of the house
- Report mosquito problems or receive additional information by calling (626) 814-9466 or online at www.SGVmosquito.org
The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District is a public health agency dedicated to the control of mosquito and other vector-borne diseases.
The District can be reached at 626-814-9466 or on the web at www.sgvmosquito.org
