Mosquitoes test positive for WNV

DOWNEY – A sample of mosquitoes in Downey have tested positive for West Nile virus, a viral disease that is spread through the bite of a mosquito. “People may think mosquitoes are just annoyances, but in Downey and surrounding communities, they can pose a very serious threat to our health,” said Mayor Fernando Vasquez.

The positive test was confirmed by the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District during the week of July 21, officials said. Eight L.A. County communities had positive samples, including Downey.

Health officials said the threat of West Nile virus increases as temperatures warm. It is a potentially dangerous disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can lead to death in humans, horses, birds and wildlife.

In milder cases, infected patients experience fevers, body aches and headaches. Some people can experience coma and paralysis.

City officials said they are fighting mosquitoes in parks, street gutters and public areas, but asked the public’s help to control them around their homes.

Residents are encouraged to eliminate dirty, stagnant water; fit doors and windows with tight-fitting screens; and report breeding mosquitoes by calling (562) 944-9656 or online at glacvcd.org.

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Published: Aug. 7, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 17