Vector Agencies Issue Warning On Tiger Mosquito

The Greater Los Angeles Vector Control District (GLACVCD) is asking residents to remove old tires, containers, as well as any trash before they fill up with rainwater from this weekend’s expected rain.  A water filled container can allow hundreds of mosquitoes to hatch and grow into adults after seven days.

Asian tiger mosquitoes were found last fall in several Los Angeles County Areas. The eradication of this particular type of mosquito is a main goal of vector agencies trough southern California. The Asian tiger mosquito is not only annoying, but can also transmit serious diseases, such as Dengue fever that West Nile virus.

During the winter, mosquito activity is low because of the cold weather, but with spring heat and rains, more mosquitoes are expected.

Below are some of the tips that GLACVCD has distributed for residents:

• Search for and discard any containers, cans, buckets, old tires, and trash around the home. Store items in a covered area or indoors to prevent water from accumulating.

• Drill drain-holes in tubs, containers, trash cans, and tire swings that must be kept outdoors.

• Look closely under all bushes and behind walls for trash, plastic bags, tarps or children's toys that may collect water. Discard or store them indoors.

• Store recyclables inside covered trashcans or sealed plastic bags

• Remove any water saucers from beneath potted plants and drill drain holes in all decorative flower pots.

• Do not store water in uncovered buckets or rain barrels. Ensure rain barrels are completely sealed to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

• Empty bird baths and small fountains completely or clean them thoroughly every 3 days.

Request FREE mosquito fish for ponds or larger fountains.

• Clean out rain gutters and lawn drains to ensure water does not collect.

• Water plants at the soil level. Water that collects in the leaves and axils of plants will breed mosquitoes.

• Spread the word! Talk to your neighbors about preventing mosquitoes from breeding.

GLACVCD is also calling upon residents to report if they see any small black and white mosquitoes, or if they have been bitten. The GLACVCD can be reached at 562-944-9656 or by visiting www.glacvcd.org.