The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District today confirmed presence of West Nile virus at mosquito traps located within Temple City.
Humans can contract West Nile virus from a mosquito bite, which may cause serious illness or death. Six confirmed cases of people with the virus have been reported this year in the greater San Gabriel Valley.
Although risk is low to moderate, the City of Temple City is urging residents to take precautions to reduce West Nile exposure by practicing the “five Ds”:
-Drain standing water where mosquitoes breed like old tires, flowerpots and clogged rain gutters.
-Dress in long sleeves and long pants when outside.
-Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
-Stay indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
-Ensure that doors and windows are properly screened.
Though rare, West Nile virus can have serious effects, especially in those whose immunity is already compromised, such as elderly people. Although 90 percent of infected people will not have symptoms, milder cases could cause fever, fatigue, and flu-like and gastrointestinal problems; more serious cases can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord or even death. Anyone with questions or concerns should contact their doctor.
For more information, visit www.sgvmosquito.org.
