Zika-Transmitting Mosquitoes Found In Long Beach

LONG BEACH, CA — The type of mosquito, Aedes aegypti, that could transmit the Zika, dengue and other viruses was found for the first time in Long Beach, city health officials announced Monday. City officials are urging residents to take necessary protection against mosquito bites.

"We are actively informing and encouraging residents and visitors to take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites," Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia said. "I'm proud of the outreach the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services is conducting across our diverse communities."

The Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were found in North Long Beach in the jurisdiction of the Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District. Authorities have deployed a variety of traps in the area to "evaluate the extent of the infestation" and to prevent the mosquitoes from spreading. These mosquitoes have been found in several surrounding cities in Southern California, but this is the first time they were spotted in Long Beach.

"Our goal is to control this mosquito population," Long Beach Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis said. "We are doing everything to ensure this mosquito does not become established or thrive in our communities."

Zika is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito but can also be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person and also through a pregnant mother to her baby.

Residents were urged to report any sightings of the insects by calling the Zika hotline at (562) 570-7907. Residents were also encouraged to take precautions, including:

• emptying containers filled with water at least once a week;
• cleaning and scrubbing bird baths and pet water bowls;
• dumping water from potted plant saucers;
• checking rain gutters and lawn drains to ensure they are not holding water and debris;
• using mosquito repellent;
• wearing long sleeves and pants; and
• ensuring screens on doors and windows are in good repair.

Aedes aegypti is a roughly quarter-inch, black-and-white insect that is notably aggressive and is known to bite during the daytime.

Photo courtesy of the city of Long Beach