Recent mosquito samples show no West Nile virus

VECTOR CONTROL

by Ruth Osborn

Communications Director

Amosquito infected with West Nile Virus was found in Leisure World on June 16, but subsequent surveillance traps have yielded no more positive findings, according to Lora Young of the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District.

She presented these encouraging findings to the GRF Board of Directors at a special meeting June 23. (For more information on the meeting, see GRF President’s column on page 1.)

Leisure World is one of three city sites—along with the Naval Weapons Station and Hellman Ranch—that has traps routinely set so inspectors can proactively monitor mosquito population growth.

Experts are warning that WNV activity started earlier this year and could reach significant levels this summer.

The positive mosquito sample was detected at Golden Rain Road and St. Andrews Drive. Vector Control immediately deployed door-to-door teams that inspected 148 LW homes. If they saw standing water, residents were alerted, and sources were eliminated.

“We are very vigilant about Leisure World,” Young said. “We realize that while 80% (of the population) does not show symptoms, those who do are typically in the 55-and-over range or are 10 and under. The youngest and the oldest are more vulnerable to the disease. So, we make sure we do our due diligence.”

To that end, residents are urged to check property weekly and dump standing water, even small amounts, like what would accumulate in saucers under potted plants. People are asked to report overwatering or pooled water. They can call or email Vector Control at 714-971-2421 or visit ocvector. org and click the “report an issue” button. People can also subscribe to e-alerts on the website by clicking “subscribe” at the far right on the home page. Once mosquito activity has been reported, inspectors will be sent out.

Even though there has been no additional positive samples in Leisure World, monitoring continues. If they increase, Vector Control will alert city officials and residents, conduct home inspections and place public health warning signs.

If a heavy infestation is detected, the agency will use truck-mounted foggers spraying adulticide to combat active transmission of WNV. The public is notified ahead of spraying.

In Leisure World, the flood channel that bisects this community is routinely inspected every 10 days through November. If breeding is found, the channel is treated with mosquito larvicide.

Meanwhile, all residents are advised to take precautions and wear mosquito repellent when mosquitoes are most active (dawn or dusk).