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Mosquito control officials confirm West Nile virus activity in San Gabriel Valley

Residents encouraged to take action: Tip, Toss, and Protect

Pomona, Calif. (August 3, 2020) - The first indication of West Nile virus (WNV) in San Gabriel Valley has been detected in a sample of mosquitoes from the city of Pomona.

Tip, toss, protect

The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District (SGVMVCD) routinely monitors populations of adult mosquitoes using traps and tests groups of adult female mosquitoes for the presence of West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases. SGVMVCD also tests wild birds, such as crows, which can provide insight into the spread of WNV.

"West Nile virus is endemic, which means we'll detect it every year in our communities," said SGVMVCD Scientific Program Manager Melissa Doyle. "As the season heats up, everyone should take the necessary steps to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate stagnant water around their home."

Mosquito control officials encourage residents to take action now to prevent an outbreak from spreading in their communities.

"It only takes one bite for a mosquito carrying West Nile virus to get you sick," said SGVMVCD Public Information Officer Levy Sun. "Mosquito control is a responsibility shared by all residents, businesses and property owners."

tip toss protect campaign banner

San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District urges everyone to take the following actions to stay healthy and bite-free:

  • Tip out stagnant water around the home weekly
  • Toss unused containers that can hold stagnant water
  • Protect against bites by using insect repellent containing CDC-recommended Picaridin, DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus (or PMD), or IR3535. These are effective against mosquitoes when used as labeled
  • Contact San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District to report neglected swimming pools at www.SGVMosquito.org or 626-814-9466

 

About West Nile Virus
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, West Nile virus (WNV) is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms may include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, and a mild skin rash. WNV can affect the nervous system and result in meningitis, encephalitis, paralysis and even death. People over 50 years of age and those with chronic health problems are at higher risk of severe illness. While not all mosquitoes carry this virus, the type of mosquito that spreads this virus is found throughout Los Angeles County.

About SGVMVCD
SGVMVCD is one of five vector control districts in Los Angeles County. Year-round, the agency monitors stagnant water sources, such as gutters, storm drains, channels and non-functional swimming pools. The agency also routinely monitors populations of adult mosquitoes using traps and tests groups of adult female mosquitoes for the presence of WNV and other mosquito-borne diseases. In addition, submitting wild birds, such as crows, for testing can provide insight into the spread of WNV.