West Nile Virus still a problem in San Gabriel Valley

from the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito Control & Vector Control District

The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District continues to find evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in the San Gabriel Valley. Tests conducted this week identified WNV in another of the District's chicken flocks located just north of the main campus of the Claremont Colleges in the city of Claremont

The District routinely tests mosquitoes, birds, and chickens from flocks it maintains throughout the San Gabriel Valley as part of its disease surveillance program.  

Residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites as transmission is expected to continue throughout the summer and fall months.   

So far this year the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reports a total of 74 human infections in Los Angeles County.  

• 46 are listed as the more severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease (WNND)
• 15 are the milder West Nile fever (WNF)
• 13 are asymptomatic blood donors

Only one in approximately 150 infections result in severe illness, however 62% percent of cases reported this year have been the more severe West Nile neuroinvasive disease.  It is entirely possible that more than 1,300 cases of WNV in Los Angeles County this year have not been tested and reported. This has District officials very concerned. 

District Manager Kenn Fujioka said, "This level of under-reporting leaves residents with the mistaken impression that WNV is not a big problem so they do not take these warnings seriously. Any patient or their family members would testify that getting sick from West Nile virus is not a trivial issue."

When spending time outdoors, residents should follow these recommendations:

• 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