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West Nile Virus: What Residents Should Know

Posted on 10/19/2025

Our District has identified mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus in Greater Los Angeles, so we are reaching out to share more information about this mosquito-borne disease. West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that causes disease in humans, horses, and birds. WNV spreads to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, and it can make people sick and even cause death. WNV is common in the United States, especially in California, and is a problem that is here to stay.

In Greater LA County: 133 WNV+ mosquito samples | 3 WNV+ dead birds
In California: 2,500 WNV+ mosquito samples | 138 WNV+ dead birds

West Nile Virus Transmission Cycle

Symptoms of WNV
About 1 in 5 people who become infected with WNV will have symptoms like fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and vomiting in the days after being bitten by a mosquito. Just one bite can spread WNV, but you can protect yourself with mosquito repellent.

Mosquito Prevention & Protection

Eliminate standing water in clogged gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs, or anything that holds water for over a week.

Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.

Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and other small containers weekly.

Wear insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.

Found a dead bird?
If you find a dead bird (especially a crow, jay, magpie, raven, sparrow, finch, or hawk) please file a report online or call toll-free 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). Dead bird reports are often the first sign that WNV is active in an area, and they help CDPH track WNV in California all year long.

Report A Dead Bird

Sincerely,

Greater LA Team