Following a winter season marked by historic rainfall, Los Angeles County residents are ready to embrace the spring season and enjoy the outdoors. However, all the water left from the winter rains and the warmer temperatures may create optimal conditions for mosquitoes to breed. As we enter the mosquito season, vector control experts stress the importance of residents taking preventative measures against mosquitoes. The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD/District) joins other public health and vector control agencies across the state to commemorate California Mosquito Awareness Week, April 14-20. This annual statewide campaign aims to raise awareness and educate the public on effective mosquito prevention and bite reduction measures, thereby preventing the spread of diseases.

Don't miss out on the District's Fireside Chat 2.0: "Innovation and the Future of Vector Control."

As part of its ongoing fireside chat series, the District will host “Innovation and the Future of Vector Control” on Monday, April 15, at 6 PM. District staff will join industry experts to delve into new mosquito control strategies, exploring the cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of mosquito control in Los Angeles County and the State of California.

When: Monday, April 15th, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM
Where: Zoom
Registration Link: bit.ly/Fireside_Chat2

The mosquito is the most dangerous creature in the world. Mosquitoes kill over one million people worldwide each year because they can transmit debilitating or sometimes deadly viruses like Malaria, West Nile virus, and dengue with just a bite. All Los Angeles County residents play an important role in protecting their community. Mosquito control is a shared responsibility, and residents can take simple steps to reduce the number of mosquitoes in their neighborhood. 

 DIY Mosquito Solutions

Mosquitoes can lay eggs in the smallest places – even a bottle cap! The best method to reduce breeding on your property is to limit the number of potential sources. Inspect around and inside your home for potential breeding sources. If standing water is found, remove the source. If the source cannot be removed, check weekly for standing water. Download our DIY Checklist for simple solutions.

Repel, Don’t Swell

Remember to wear insect repellent to protect your health. The CDC recommends using repellents with active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. It’s extremely important to wear insect repellent when traveling abroad, especially when visiting sub-tropical and tropical regions.

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus (WNV) is a "bird virus" primarily transmitted between birds by mosquitoes. The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of a mosquito infected with WNV. People who get WNV cannot transmit it to other people. WNV is endemic in Los Angeles County, which means it is present every year.