West Nile Virus Risk Still High

As long as temperatures remain high, so does the threat of West Nile virus.

During the past week, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) identified 23 West Nile virus positive dead birds, 29 West Nile virus positive mosquito samples, and six sentinel chickens showing West Nile virus antibodies.

One of the birds and two mosquito samples were found in Diamond Bar.

This year, the GLACVCD has found 92 West Nile virus positive dead birds, 278 West Nile virus positive mosquito samples, and 13 sentinel chickens with West Nile virus antibodies. Statewide, there have been 302 birds, 1,028 mosquito samples, and 79 sentinel chickens.

Because West Nile virus activity levels are high, GLACVCD is urging residents to take the necessary precautions this weekend to avoid mosquito bites. They are also asking that steps be taken to stop the transmission of West Nile by eliminating standing water on properties; avoiding activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquitos are most active; and wearing insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil. Wearing long sleeve shirts and pants while outdoors will offer further protection, as will making sure screens on windows are not torn.

Sentinel chickens are birds specifically placed to serve as early warning systems of West Nile Virus infections.