Additional mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in Palmdale

LANCASTER – More mosquitoes collected from a mosquito trap in Palmdale have tested positive for West Nile virus, authorities announced Tuesday.

The trap was located near 30th Street East and Palmdale Boulevard, according to a news release from the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District (AVMVCD).

“So far the district has sent in 102 mosquito samples. This is the tenth West Nile virus positive detected within District boundaries for the 2020 mosquito season,” said District Entomologist Karen Mellor. This time last year, there were five West Nile virus positive mosquito samples, Mellor added.

West Nile Virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Although most people that are infected do not show any symptoms, West Nile Virus is a potentially debilitating disease. Even mild cases of West Nile fever can cause patients enormous pain and discomfort for months. Though deaths are rare and typically involve patients who are already vulnerable, the virus can also cause paralysis, encephalitis and meningitis.

AVMVCD personnel will continue to conduct intensive searches of the entire District to keep mosquito populations low and reduce the chances of residents getting ill. The District urges residents to continue to do their part in mosquito control and protect themselves from mosquito bites by following these recommendations:

• Check property for standing water and get rid of it.
• When mosquitoes are active, use EPA registered insect repellents that contain one of these main ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, IR3535.
• Make sure screens on windows and doors are in good repair to avoid mosquitoes in the home.
• Check around faucets, irrigation systems and air conditioner units, and repair leaks or puddles that remain for several days.
• Report stagnant pools and other backyard sources to the AVMVCD at 661-942-2917.
• Report dead birds by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473).

To stay up-to-date on new West Nile Virus activity in the Antelope Valley and any mosquito related information, visit www.avmosquito.org. To report a green pool or mosquito nuisance, or for further questions or services, contact the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District at 661-942-2917.

[Information via news release from the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District.]

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More mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in Palmdale

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