L. A. County warns of West Nile virus threat
Published on August 16, 2023
In early August, officials confirmed the first mosquito sample in Lakewood in 2023 to test positive for West Nile virus.
Lakewood joins many other communities in L.A. County to now have infected mosquitoes this year, as in years past. It is a reminder to be vigilant about protecting yourself and your family from mosquito bites.
About West Nile Virus
West Nile Virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no cure.
One in five persons infected with the virus will exhibit symptoms, which can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash.
There is no human vaccine for WNV, and severe cases can lead to paralysis or even death.
Know your enemy
- The Culex (common house) mosquito is a mildly aggressive pest that prefers to bite birds and animals, but they do bite people…mostly between dusk and dawn. They require standing water to lay their eggs.
- The “ankle biter” Aedes mosquito prefers human blood and bites actively during the day. Their eggs can remain alive for years on the dry surface of a container even after every drop of water has been removed, and hatch into larvae when conditions are right.
For more information on Aedes and other mosquitoes, visit www.glacvcd.org.
Take these steps to protect your family
- Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets or anything that holds water for more than a week.
- Scrub containers thoroughly to dislodge any eggs in crevices and along the waterline.
- Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
- Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths and other small containers weekly.
- Wear insect repellant when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.
- Check window screens and repair or replace as needed.
- Report neglected (green) swimming pools in your neighborhood to Lakewood City Hall by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2140, or email service1@lakewoodcity.org.
If you find any dead birds or squirrels (which could be a sign of West Nile virus), report them by calling the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-968-2473.
Mosquitoes do not fly far, so if you are getting bites, the water is likely in your yard.
If you are unable to find and remove the source yourself, contact the Greater L.A. County Vector Control District at 562-944-9656 or www.GLAmosquito.org. Their free services include inspection and treatment.