City urges mosquito precautions after West Nile virus detected in Duarte

Duarte is urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites after West Nile virus was detected in local mosquitoes.

The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District’s surveillance table, updated Oct. 19, lists two positive mosquito samples in Duarte, with the first detection Sept. 28. These are mosquito samples, not reports of human cases.

In an Oct. 19 warning, the city recommends dumping standing water, regularly emptying and cleaning birdbaths and other water-holding containers, using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, and keeping door and window screens intact.

West Nile virus spreads through bites from infected mosquitoes. Some people have no symptoms; others may develop fever, headaches, body aches, nausea or a rash, according to the city.

- Brad Haugaard