As summer progresses, the threat of mosquitoes in Southern California increases.
On Monday, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District confirmed the first detection of West Nile virus in its service area.
“The virus was detected in a mosquito sample collected from a surveillance trap near Morgan Park in the city of Baldwin Park,” officials said.
West Nile virus, which can be fatal to humans, was also recently found near Huntington Beach in Orange County.
“There is no cure or human vaccine for West Nile virus,” said Tristan Hallum, director of scientific programs for the SGVMVCD. “Therefore, the best method of protection is to prevent mosquito bites and reduce potential sources of mosquitoes.”
These sources include standing water, which West Hollywood residents fear could pose a danger to those living near the Melrose Triangle due to a halted construction project and the standing water that has collected there.
The government encourages people to throw away standing water and use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535.
For more information about insect repellents, click here.