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The West Nile virus is back in LA County
A culex tarsalis female mosquito that was caught in a trap.
(
Jeff Topping
/
Getty Images
)
Topline:
It’s officially West Nile virus season. While L.A. County has had no human cases so far, the first infected mosquitoes were recently detected here this year.
What’s happening? The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, a public health agency that monitors mosquitoes, found 11 samples positive for the West Nile virus. Most are concentrated around the San Fernando Valley, including three in Valley Glen. Two others were reported in Bellflower and South El Monte. Culex mosquitoes, which are often identified by their brown appearance, are the primary type that transmits West Nile.
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The West Nile virus is back in LA County
How can I protect myself? The four other districts in the county haven’t reported West Nile activity yet, but that will likely happen in the coming summer months. You can help prevent spread by removing the main place where mosquitoes breed — standing water. Keep an eye out for water as small as a bottle cap and wipe it down. Staying indoors at dusk and dawn can also help since this is when Culex mosquitoes are most active.
Anywhere else? Orange County's Mosquito and Vector Control District also confirmed today that mosquito samples tested positive for the virus in the City of Orange.
Go deeper:
- How to take the bite out of mosquito season
- The west nile virus is back, with the pesky mosquitoes carrying it
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