West Nile Virus Found In Baldwin Park,San Gabriel Valley

BALDWIN PARK CA —The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District announced West Nile Virus was discovered in a sample taken in La Verne, Thursday.

Similar findings occurred ten days ago in Baldwin Park, officials said.

The testing occurs throughout the year, as the Vector Control officials inspect female mosquitoes and dead birds for the virus. The virus spreads typically from bird to mosquitoes, and mosquitoes can spread the illness to people through a bite.

This summer, two people in Los Angeles contracted the virus, according to the Los Angeles County of Public Health. Both are expected to recover.

"It's easy to forget that one little mosquito bite can make you very sick," a spokesperson for the SGV Vector Control agency said. "Be sure to wear repellent when outdoors and dump standing, stagnant water weekly."

Symptoms of West Nile Virus include fever, nausea, rashes, body aches. In extreme cases, neurological symptoms can occur, including inflammation of the spinal cord and brain. In those cases, paralysis is possible, or even death, the Vector Control District says.

The most endangered of contracting West Nile Virus are those over 50, and people with health conditions.

Though four out of five people will never show an outward symptom of the West Nile Virus, the disease is nothing to ignore, officials say.

"A small mosquito can send you to the hospital and impact your life," Levy Sun, SGV Vector District Spokesperson said in a released statement. "Every individual is responsible for preventing mosquitoes from growing in their yard or patio."

Stagnant water sources, such as pools and plant saucers, are often found in backyards across San Gabriel Valley. It is up to residents to remain vigilant to report them, the Vector Control District says.

"We need residents and business owners to take responsibility of mosquito issues around their properties," Jason Farned of the SGV Vector Control District said.

Keep Mosquito Safe in Your Home By:

• Tipping and tossing stagnant water from plants and pots.
• Make sure all window and door screens are in good repair.
• Wear insect repellent containing a CDC-recommended DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.
• Contact the SGV Mosquito and Vector Control District to report neglected swimming pools at www.SGVMosquito.org or call 626-814-9466.