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National Mosquito Control Awareness Week
June 18 – 24, 2023
In recognition of National Mosquito Control Awareness Week (June 18 – June 24, 2023), BCHD is encouraging residents to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases. With the arrival of summer, warm weather and standing water can create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Residents can help reduce mosquitoes in their community by eliminating standing water around their homes.
West Nile virus (WNV) is the most prevalent and serious mosquito-borne disease in California. Over 7,500 human West Nile virus cases and more than 345 deaths have been reported in California since 2003. Culex mosquitoes can spread West Nile virus through their bites. These mosquitoes will feed on humans, birds and other animals at dawn and dusk.
Invasive Aedes mosquitoes primarily bite during the day. These mosquitoes have the potential to transmit diseases like dengue, chikungunya, Zika and yellow fever. Although these viruses are currently not known to be transmitted locally, travel-associated infections have been reported in California.
Everyone can do their part to help prevent mosquito bites:
1. Wear EPA-recommended repellents, including DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535.
2. Dress in long sleeves and pants while outdoors.
3. Eliminate standing water in flowerpots, saucers, old tires, buckets, pet dishes, trash cans, toys or anything that holds water for over a week.
4. Properly maintain swimming pools spas and ponds.
5. Install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
6. Clean rain gutters and cover openings in rain barrels with mosquito-proof screens.
7. Report mosquito activity or request an inspection at (310) 915-7370 or online (www.lawestvector.org/service-request/).
8. Some bird species, like crows, can become infected with West Nile virus. Report dead birds to the WNV Call Center at (877) WNV-BIRD or online (https://westnile.ca.gov/report.php).
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