From the Los Cerritos Community News
May 20, 2026
The first West Nile virus activity of 2026 has been detected in Los Angeles County after mosquito samples collected in Pico Rivera and Long Beach tested positive for the virus, according to the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.
The agency announced Wednesday that mosquito traps in both cities confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in local mosquito populations, marking the first positive mosquito samples detected this year.
Officials warned the early detections are a sign mosquito season is already underway across Southern California.
“West Nile virus is regularly detected in the environment throughout Los Angeles County, and these early detections are a reminder that mosquito season is already underway,” GLACVCD Scientific-Technical Manager Angela Caranci said in a statement.
The virus is primarily spread through bites from infected Culex mosquitoes, which are most active during dusk and dawn hours.
Health officials urged residents to begin taking precautions immediately, including removing standing water around homes and using mosquito repellent outdoors.
“Dumping standing water, reporting neglected swimming pools, and using mosquito repellent are simple but effective ways to reduce risk,” Caranci said.
There is currently no human vaccine for West Nile virus.