STUDIO CITY—On August 23, six dead birds were brought in for testing resulting in six positive cases of West Nile Virus. One being from Studio City prompted the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District to warn residents door to door about the infection. This is the first time for a test result to come back positive in the Studio City area.

Vector Control also released results for mosquitoes that were tested in the area, again coming back positive for the virus. Officials are considering the area a possible “hot spot” for the virus. One of the state’s three reported cases this year came from the Studio City area, just within the last week and out of last year’s thirteen state-wide cases; three came from L.A. County yet were not confirmed to any specific locations by officials. Though, some suspect that they were also from the Studio City area.

The Carrying Vector of the Virus

The results of infected mosquitoes and birds also affects the San Fernando Valley, Burbank, Encino, Northridge, Granada, Sunland, Van Nuys, Pico Rivera and Woodland Hills areas. With so many cities in the county coming back with positive cases, the GLACVD issued a release on August 16 stating that West Nile Virus is at epidemic levels.

West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans as well as animals when an infected mosquito bites. Most commonly the mosquitoes have been carrying the infection from avian varieties. There is no cure for the virus and symptoms, which can last from weeks to months, with symptoms ranging from fever, headache, body aches and severe skin rash. More severe cases include high fevers, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, paralysis, coma and possible death these occurring in about one in every one-hundred and fifty people.

Vector Control has a few tips to help limit the spread by some proactive measures. They include; eliminate standing water from your property to limit breeding grounds, avoid outdoor activities during dusk or dawn, and “defend” yourself by wearing insect repellent that is EPA-registered using DEET, Picadarin, Lemon Eucalyptus Oil and long sleeve shirts and pants while outdoors. Also make sure to check your window screens for rips and tears, which infected mosquitoes can enter your home.

For more information contact Director of Community Affairs Truc Dever at the Greater Los Angeles Vector Control District at 562-944-9656 at extension 510. For statewide information and statistics or to report dead birds and squirrels call 1-800-WNV-BIRD or visit www.westnile.ca.gov