First WNV-positive mosquito found in Seal Beach
OC VECTOR CONTROL
The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) has confirmed mosquito samples infected with West Nile Virus (WNV) in the City of Seal Beach.
The surveillance traps were set at the cross streets of Seal Beach Boulevard and Westminster Avenue.
Inspectors will be in the area to check known sources of mosquito breeding and try to identify any unknown sources.
WNV advisory posters will be placed in the affected areas, and continued positive mosquito samples may trigger mosquito control in the future. OCMVCD will keep the public informed of WNV positive activity in the coming weeks.
The OCMVCD conducts county-wide mosquito control during the WNV season, which typically begins in early summer and tapers off in the fall, with the highest risk for disease occurring in mid-July through September.
In Leisure World, inspectors routinely check the flood control channel along Golden Rain Road for elevated mosquito breeding. When mosquito larvae are found, they are treated with larvicide, which prevents breeding for 120 days.
As OCMVCD continues to identify and treat for mosquito breeding sources, it is essential that residents do their part in eliminating standing water on their properties. Even a capful of water can produce hundreds of mosquitoes.
Residents must take charge of their yards to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on their property by making sure to:
• Tip out any standing water at least once a week.
• Toss out any unused containers.
• Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly.
• Do not transport or share plant clippings rooted in water.
• Drill a hole or puncture containers to eliminate standing water.
To prevent mosquito bites, take action, and follow these tips:
• Apply mosquito repellents to exposed skin before going outdoors; reapply as recommended.
• Wear repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space; repair broken or damaged screens.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter-colored clothing.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for District email notifications. For more information, visit www.ocvector.org.
Most often, WNV is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes are WNV carriers (“vectors”) that become infected when they feed on infected birds.
Infected mosquitoes can then spread WNV to humans and other animals when they bite.
There are no vaccines to prevent WNV or medications to treat it.
Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not have symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. About 1 in 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness.
—from OCMVCD
