The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD/District) has confirmed the first mosquito samples to test positive this year for West Nile virus (WNV) in Los Angeles County. The positive samples were collected from mosquito traps in Arleta, South El Monte and Valley Glen, confirming the presence of the virus in mosquito populations within the community. Subsequent testing has confirmed three additional WNV positive mosquito samples collected in Van Nuys, Panorama City and Lake Balboa. This brings the total number of detections to six so far this year in the District’s service area.

“West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease transmitted to people through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito,” said Steve Vetrone, GLACVCD assistant general manager of Vector Management. “The virus is endemic to Los Angeles County with activity typically increasing during the summer months.”

The native Culex mosquito is most active during dawn and dusk. West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne disease in Los Angeles County and is naturally found in the environment across the entire county, even in areas where recent mosquito sample detections have not occurred. Because there is currently no human vaccine for the virus, residents must take personal protective measures by using mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using insect repellent with any of the following active ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These ingredients have been proven safe and effective when used as directed.

“While we continue to monitor and treat public spaces, we rely on residents to help reduce mosquito breeding in their properties,” added Vetrone. “Dumping out standing water and wearing mosquito repellent are simple but powerful ways to stay protected.”

Mosquito control is a shared responsibility and residents must take an active role in reducing the threat of WNV in their neighborhoods by taking these additional steps:

• Eliminate standing water in clogged gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs or anything else that holds water for over a week. 

• Ensure that swimming pools, spas and ponds are properly maintained. 

• Change the water in pet dishes, bird baths and other small containers weekly. 

• Request mosquitofish from your local vector control district for placement in ornamental ponds. 

• Wear CDC-recommended insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.

• Report neglected (green) swimming pools in your neighborhood to your vector control district. 

For an extensive list of common indoor and outdoor sources and recommended solutions, visit bit.ly/diy-mosquito-solutions. For more information, residents and businesses can contact the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562) 944-9656, visit www.GLAmosquito.org or connect on social media.