SANTA FE SPRINGS - The West Nile virus continues to be detected in mosquitoes in the San Fernando Valley, with 19 positive samples collected since early July, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District reported today.
The positive samples were collected in Burbank, Encino, La Mirada, Montebello, Northridge, Panorama City, Porter Ranch, Sherman Oaks, Sun Valley and Van Nuys in the period between July 3 and Aug. 16.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito and is a leading cause of severe infections of the nervous system among adults over 50 in Los Angeles County. There is no cure for West Nile virus.
A total of 10 cases of the West Nile virus have been reported by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health so far this year, with 70 percent of the patients requiring hospitalization.
Residents are encouraged to make sure that water-holding containers on private property are emptied to prevent mosquito reproduction.
The district also recommends residents use Environmental Protection Agency-registered repellents, including DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 and oil of lemon eucalyptus, to prevent bites and WNV illness.
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