The Greater Los Angles County Vector Control District has identified mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus in Greater Los Angeles, so is reaching out to share more information about this mosquito-borne disease.

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne virus that causes disease in humans, horses and birds. WNV spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, and it can make people sick and even cause death. WNV is common in the United States, especially in California, and is a problem that is here to stay.

Symptoms of WNV
About one in five people who become infected with WNV will have symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea and vomiting in the days after being bitten by a mosquito. Just one bite can spread WNV, but you can protect yourself with mosquito repellent.

Mosquito Prevention & Protection

Eliminate standing water in clogged gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs or anything that holds water for over a week.

Ensure that swimming pools, spas and ponds are properly maintained.

Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths and other small containers weekly.

Wear insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.

Found a dead bird?
If you find a dead bird (especially a crow, jay, magpie, raven, sparrow, finch or hawk) please file a report online or call toll-free to 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). Dead bird reports are often the first sign that WNV is active in an area, and they help the California Department of Public Health track WNV in California all year long.

If you want to report a dead bird reach out at Report a Dead Bird.