Health officials in Pasadena have confirmed a case of West Nile Virus in the community.
West Nile Virus is most commonly spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, the Centers for Disease Control says. There is no licensed vaccines or medicines available to prevent or treat West Nile.
In a public alert issued Friday, the Pasadena Public Health Department stated that the virus was detected in a human for the first time this year on Oct. 9.
Due to the detection of the case, the health department recommends the following prevention tips for community members:
- Tip out stagnant water around your home weekly
- Throw out unused containers that can hold stagnant
- Use screens on windows/repair broken ones
- Wear protective clothing
- Use insect repellent with the following recommended ingredients: Picaridin, DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or IR3535
“By taking preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of infection and help protect our community,” said Pasadena Acting Health Officer Dr. Parveen Kaur.
“PPHD urges residents to take an active role in reducing the threat of West Nile virus by following mosquito prevention tips,” added Director of Public Health Manuel Carmona. “The most effective way to stay protected is to prevent mosquito bites.
Health officials announced last month that the first four cases of West Nile Virus this year had been detected in L.A. County, involving residents of the Antelope Valley, San Fernando Valley and central Los Angeles.
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