Local officials are warning residents of newfound West Nile virus activity as rising temperatures bring increased mosquito concerns.
The virus was confirmed in a dead bird in Hacienda Heights and in mosquitoes in Diamond Bar, the first sign of West Nile virus in both communities this year, according to the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.
A mosquito sample in Sherman Oaks and dead birds in Long Beach have also tested positive for the virus.
Officials say wearing insect repellent and getting rid of standing water are important ways to avoid the virus, which can be transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.
"The most important [thing] is to dump and drain any standing water" held in containers said Levy Sun, a spokesman for the Vector Control District.
There have been more than 100 positive samples of the virus in mosquitoes and more than 250 positive dead birds in California this year, officials said. The first documented human case this year was reported in Contra Costa County last week.
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West Nile virus has no cure. Symptoms include fever, headache and body rashes, and in severe cases the virus can lead to paralysis or death. In 2013, 104 people tested positive for West Nile Virus, including five fatal cases, in the area served by the Vector Control District.
Sun said officials will collect data about the virus, and may spray areas where the virus peaks.
