PASADENA, Calif. — The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) urges residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites as West Nile virus (WNV) activity reaches its highest levels in California in five years, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
August and September are typically peak periods for WNV transmission. On August 20, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed the first local death due to WNV. As of August 14, CDPH has reported 30 human cases of WNV in California, including three fatalities, across 13 counties. The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District confirmed its first detection of WNV in Pasadena this year in a mosquito trap site collected on August 13.
“Most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop symptoms, but a small percentage can develop serious, potentially life-threatening illness,” said Dr. Parveen Kaur, Health Officer. “As we enter peak transmission season, I urge everyone to take simple steps to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes.”
About 80% of people infected with WNV have no symptoms, approximately 20% develop a mild fever, and less than 1% (about 1 in 150 people) develop severe neurological illness, such as meningitis or encephalitis. Older adults and people with certain underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness.
Protect yourself by practicing the “Three Ds”:
- DEET: Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535, following label instructions. When used as directed, DEET is safe for use on pregnant or breastfeeding people and children.
- Dawn and Dusk: Wear long sleeves and pants and use repellent when outdoors during early morning and evening hours. Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens.
- Drain: Eliminate standing water in flowerpots, buckets, tires, and other containers around your home.
Birds can carry WNV, and some birds can get very sick and die from it. Reporting dead birds can help track where the virus is spreading. Help track WNV activity by reporting dead birds at the California West Nile Virus website or by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473).
For more information about West Nile virus, prevention, and surveillance, visit the California Department of Public Health’s West Nile Virus webpage.