[Vector Control] – As summer heats up, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District advises residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes and West Nile virus. GLACVCD has confirmed additional West Nile virus positive activity in the communities of Diamond Bar and Hacienda Heights (ZIP codes 91789 and 91745, respectively).

GLACVCD confirmed a WNV positive mosquito sample in Diamond Bar and a WNV-positive dead bird in Hacienda Heights. This is the first sign of virus activity this year in both communities. View District statistics here. Statewide this year, there have been more than 100 positive mosquito samples and more than 250 positive dead birds. View more at westnile.ca.gov.

“This is a reminder that West Nile virus continues to be a problem here in Los Angeles County,” says Levy Sun, the GLACVCD’s public information officer. “We can anticipate more activity as the season progresses.”

West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.  There is no cure for West Nile virus.  One in five persons infected with West Nile virus will exhibit symptoms.  Symptoms usually occur between 5 and 15 days and can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a 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.

Any water left standing for more than one week in containers such as flower pots, fountains and pet dishes provides the perfect breeding habitat for mosquitoes.  GLACVCD would like to remind residents that even the smallest of breeding sources can contribute to a large public health problem within the Greater Los Angeles County area.

Residents can take an active role in reducing the threat of WNV in their neighborhoods by taking the following steps:

1. Eliminate stagnant, dirty water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, pet dishes, discarded tires, or anything that holds water for more than a week
2. Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained
3. Request FREE mosquitofish from your local vector control district for placement in ornamental ponds
4. Go online to ReportMosquitoes.org or call 562-944-9656 to report the following:
   • Mosquito problems near your home or neighborhood
   • Neglected (green) swimming pools in your neighborhood (including vacant homes)

For more information, residents can contact Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at 562-944-9656 or online at www.glacvcd.org.