West Nile Virus
The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) has confirmed the first mosquito sample to test positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in Vernon this year. This positive sample was detected in mosquito traps in the community on September 5th. District staff will place notices in public spaces within a half-mile radius around trap locations to advise residents to take precautions when mosquitoes are present.
For more information about WNV activity in California, please visit 2024 West Nile Virus Activity In California.
Important WNV Information
- WNV is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.
- 1 in 5 persons infected with the virus will exhibit symptoms.
- Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash.
- Severe cases can lead to paralysis or even death.
- There is no human vaccine for WNV.
Mosquito Prevention and Protection
Mosquito control is a shared responsibility, and residents must take an active role in reducing the threat of WNV in their neighborhoods by taking the following steps:
- Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs, or anything that holds water for more than a week.
- Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
- Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and other small containers weekly.
- Wear insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.
- Report neglected (green) swimming pools in your neighborhood to GLACVCD.
Heat Emergencies
During heat waves, the State activates its Operations Center to coordinate the State’s response, dispatch mutual aid, and support local communities as they respond to potential threats of heat and fire.
Cooling centers are available throughout LA County when temperatures soar. For information on cooling centers in LA County, visit ready.lacounty.gov/heat.
For more information on how to prepare for emergencies and extreme weather, visit listoscalifornia.org. And, for real-time information on active fires, you may visit fire.ca.gov.
Additional Resources
988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Mental Health Listening Session
