Community Corner

West Nile Virus Found in Mosquitoes at PV Botanic Garden

A notice has been posted at the South Coast Botanic Garden advising residents of the virus, which can cause flu-like symptoms in some and more serious health conditions in the elderly.

West Nile virus has been found in mosquitoes collected at the South Coast Botanic Garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

The virus, reported by the Los Angeles County West Vector & Vector-Borne Disease Control District to the city of Rolling Hills Estates on Thursday, can cause flu-like symptoms in some, but residents can take precautions to avoid mosquitoes that could be carrying the disease.

The district advised residents to apply insect repellent especially during dawn and dusk, ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes, and to eliminate sources of standing water like flowerpots and pet bowls.

Find out what's happening in Palos Verdeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This year, the disease has been reported in 96 separate zip codes in Los Angeles County, from either dead birds, trapped adult mosquitoes, or sentinel chicken flocks, according to the district.

The virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they first feed on birds that carry the virus, and then bite a human or animal.

Find out what's happening in Palos Verdeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Symptoms of West Nile fever can include headaches, high fever and body aches. Symptoms of West Nile Neuroinvasive disease can include high fever, disorientation and muscle weakness. Symptoms usually occur two to 15 days after infection.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here