From Fox LA
July 19, 2019
LONG BEACH, Calif. (FOX 11) – Mosquitoes collected in Long Beach have tested positive for West Nile virus. It’s the first detection of the virus this year in the county, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District announced Friday.
“West Nile virus is endemic in Los Angeles County. When temperatures increase, so do mosquito populations and disease risk, which pose a serious public health threat for our communities,” said Susanne Kluh, director of scientific-technical services at the district.
According to the district, West Nile virus activity has been increasing steadily throughout California this year.
West Nile is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms from contracting the disease can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea or a skin rash, according to the department. The symptoms can last for several days to months.
“Our agency will continue monitoring virus activity and controlling mosquitoes in affected areas,” said Anais Medina Diaz, public information officer for the district. “But it is very important residents take precautions in their own communities by wearing insect repellent and frequently removing standing water to eliminate mosquito sources.”