With summer in full swing and temperatures on the rise, officials at GLACVCD focus on combating both West Nile virus activity and the invasive Asian tiger mosquito.
West Nile Virus
Residents should take increased precautionary measures during times of extreme heat in guarding against the West Nile virus (WNV), particularly because higher temperatures accelerate the development of mosquitoes and also allow the virus to replicate faster within the infected mosquito. In the summer, the mosquito life cycle can be completed in as few as five days. That means mosquito eggs can develop into biting and flying adults in less than a week. Weather, mosquito populations, and the presence of West Nile virus in the ecosystem are all factors that impact when and where outbreaks occur.
In the United States, most cases of WNV occur between June and September, and peak in August, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To date for 2012, 47 states have reported West Nile virus infections in people, birds, or mosquitoes.
GLACVCD has identified a total of 78 WNV-positive mosquito pools thus far in 2012, as well as 18 WNV-positive dead birds, and two WNV-positive sentinel chickens within its jurisdiction.
Statewide, a total of 1,596 mosquito pools, 855 dead birds, and 168 sentinel chickens have been identified as positive for West Nile virus. In addition, 41 human cases of West
Nile virus have been reported throughout California this year.
Increased West Nile virus cases throughout California and across the U.S. are stark reminders that the disease continues to be a public health problem. Residents are encouraged to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around property to prevent mosquito breeding.
Asian Tiger Mosquito
GLACVCD continues to work towards eradication of the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). At present, this dangerous species of mosquito has been confined to the San Gabriel Valley, specifically the cities of El Monte and South El Monte; however, GLACVCD officials urge residents throughout LA County to report any suspected sightings of this black and white striped, day-biting mosquito.
This particular species of mosquito is especially dangerous because it is responsible for outbreaks of dengue in south Florida, Texas, and Hawaii. The Asian tiger mosquito is also known to transmit chikungunya, other encephalitis viruses, and canine heartworm.
Being that the Asian tiger mosquito poses a significant threat to community safety, the District has taken concerted measures to raise public awareness about this dangerous invader locally, including placement of advertisements on 50 metro buses throughout the County, and dedicating field crews to making door-to-door contact with residents regarding GLACVCD's surveillance and control campaign.
To maximize the impact of the District's mosquito abatement initiatives, GLACVCD also took on additional part-time summer support staff to assist with these important community health and safety efforts.
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