Spike In Mosquitos Carrying West Nile Reported In 3 Valley Cities
TARZANA (CBSLA.com) — Authorities say there has been a spike in the number of mosquitos testing positive for West Nile Virus in the San Fernando Valley.
Los Angeles County Vector Control officials issued a warning this week for San Fernando Valley residents of increased risk of West Nile after nine or more mosquito samples tested positive for the virus in Canoga Park, Encino and Sherman Oaks.
Woodland Hills resident Allison Pollack says she has seen an increase of unkempt pools and standing water in streets.
"It's dangerous and especially in the drought, people forget about it because they don't go outside, it's too hot," Pollack said.
The heat is adding to the danger, county vector officials said.
"In this heat, it only takes a clean pool, if its not treated, a week or two weeks to start turning green and mosquitos know they will lay their eggs in the water," said Ron Helo with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.
Across the state, 375 people have contracted West Nile this year. Fifteen people have died, including a San Fernando Valley man in his 60s last month.
Experts recommend people use mosquito repellents, dump and drain stagnant water from outdoor containers and reduce run off from overwatering in the yard.
West Nile virus symptoms usually occur between five and 15 days and can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea or a skin rash and last for several weeks to months.
