Health officials warn of West Nile virus in mosquito in Alhambra, human infection in Long Beach
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Set us as preferred Health authorities are warning residents to take precautions after the deadly West Nile virus was detected in a mosquito caught in the San Gabriel Valley.The announcement comes on the heels of the first human case of the virus reported in Long Beach.West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne infection that could be fatal to humans and some wildlife, according to the California Department of Public Health.
The virus was detected in a mosquito collected from a surveillance trap in the city of Alhambra, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District announced Monday.“West Nile virus is a recurring concern in our region because it is endemic to our area,” said Tristan Hallum, director of the agency’s scientific programs.Although most West Nile human infections are not fatal, Hallum warned that there is no cure or human vaccine for the virus.
“The key to staying safe and protecting your health is to prevent mosquito bites,” he said.Last week, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services reported its first human case of West Nile virus.
The infected person was hospitalized with neuroinvasive illness — a condition that results in the brain and surrounding tissues becoming inflamed, possibly leading to permanent brain damage and even death, according to the Mayo Clinic.The person, whose identity was not released, is currently recovering at home, according to the department.
West Nile virus is common in the United States, especially in California and even more so in Los Angeles County because the mosquito species that can transmit the virus is native to the Southern California area.The southern house mosquito, known as culex quinquefasciatus, is the region’s most common vector of West Nile virus, according to the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District.
The risk of W...