National Mosquito Control Awareness Week

The image promotes "National Mosquito Control Awareness Week" with a close-up of a mosquito.
 Mosquito Control is a Shared Responsibility

It's National Mosquito Control Awareness Week! As temperatures rise in Southern California, it's the perfect time for outdoor activities and enjoying the starry nights. However, let's not overlook our common enemy - the mosquito. Though we may not always see them, their itchy bites remind us of their presence. Discover more about these tiny yet troublesome insects and how to make them one less thing to worry about this summer! 

The image highlights mosquitoes as deadly "summer villains," causing more human deaths than any other animal.

 

Deadliest Animal in the World

Mosquitoes are considered the world's deadliest animal because they are responsible for transmitting a variety of fatal diseases to humans. A single bite from an infected mosquito can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue, Zika, and malaria. Mosquito-borne diseases affect millions worldwide, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths each year.

 

The image contrasts two mosquito types: Culex (dusk/dawn, bird biters, West Nile) and Aedes (daytime, human biters, dengue).

 

Mosquitoes in LA County

Several mosquito species are found in Los Angeles County, but two are of concern: Culex and Aedes. The Culex mosquito is native to LA County, whereas the Aedes mosquito is invasive. These mosquitoes differ in many ways, but both are most active in the spring, summer, and fall.

 

 

The image explains that West Nile virus is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, affecting horses and birds too.

 

 

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Mosquitoes in Los Angeles County pose a significant health risk as they can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus (WNV), the most common mosquito-borne disease in the area. Culex mosquitoes, known carriers of WNV, are primarily active during dusk and dawn. They prefer to feed on birds but can also bite humans and other mammals.

An informative image urging people to remove standing water to prevent mosquito breeding, featuring a person pouring water.

 

 

No Standing Water, No Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, even small amounts of water found in a bottle cap. Depending on the environment, they can complete their life cycle in as little as 5-7 days. Eliminating standing water around your home is the most effective way to prevent mosquito breeding. 

 

The image promotes using insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes, with a focus on personal safety.

 

 

 Fight The Bite

Insect repellent is an essential tool in protecting against mosquito bites and the diseases they may transmit. Repellents contain active ingredients that deter mosquitoes from landing and biting. Use any repellent containing at least 15% of DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or  Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. 

 

 

The image urges the public to report dead birds by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD to help track West Nile virus.

 

Report Dead Birds

The California West Nile Virus (WNV) and Dead Bird Call Center is open and ready to take your calls! If you find a dead bird near your home, please report it online or call 1-877-WNV-BIRD. Your reports help public health officials track and prevent WNV in California.