What to do about mosquitoes

Mosquito

Mosquitoes do not fly far, so if you are getting bites, the water is likely in your yard.

Stagnant water accumulating in ditches, drains, gutters, pools and even the smallest household or backyard containers is ideal for mosquito breeding.

Did you know that just one cup of water left standing for more than seven days can produce 300 to 500 mosquitoes?

If you are unable to find and remove the source yourself, contact the Greater L.A. County Vector Control District.

GLACVCD's free services include inspection and treatment.

Two types of mosquitoes

  • 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. 

     

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.
  • Request mosquitofish from your local vector control district for placement in ornamental ponds.
  • Wear EPA-recommended insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus 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.

What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus?

One in five persons infected with the virus will exhibit symptoms, which can include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Body aches
  • Nausea
  • Skin rash

These symptoms can last for several days to months.

One in 150 people infected with the virus will require hospitalization. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis and possibly death.

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.

Vector Control info

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District provides services to control mosquitoes.

 

Call 562-944-9656 for help.

 

Dead Bird Hotline

West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline


877-968-2473


Dead birds or squirrels can be a sign of West Nile Virus.

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