Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus in San Gabriel Valley

A Contra Costa County mosquito and vector control district technician sprays BVA Larvacide Oil into standing water in a catch basin in Pleasant Hill, Calif., on June 29, 2012. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

WEST COVINA, Calif.—Mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus near Morgan Park in the city of Baldwin Park, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District announced July 15.

Since West Nile virus is endemic to the San Gabriel Valley, it is typically detected by local public health agencies during summer, according to district officials. The warm overnight temperatures contribute to mosquito populations and disease activity.

The district said it will continue monitoring disease activity and controlling mosquitoes in public spaces through routine inspections and necessary treatments, but residents should take precautions to protect their health.

“West Nile virus can be transmitted by the native Culex mosquito species which is most active at dusk and dawn,” Tristan Hallum, district director of scientific programs, said in a statement.

“There is no cure or human vaccine for West Nile virus. Therefore, the best method of protection is to prevent mosquito bites and reduce potential mosquito sources.”

The district urges residents to take an active role in reducing the threat of the virus in their communities by taking 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; and
• Protect against bites by using insect repellent containing any one of the following recommended ingredients: Picaridin, DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (or PMD), or IR3535.

For more information, residents can contact the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District at 626-814-9466, or online at SGVmosquito.org.