Mosquitoes pose rising health threat in Monterey Park

During a recent council meeting in Monterey Park, officials received an urgent update on mosquito control efforts from the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District. Joseph Leon, a city representative on the board, emphasized the importance of eliminating stagnant water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding, especially following recent findings of West Nile virus in local mosquito populations.

District Manager Jason Farned presented alarming statistics, noting that mosquitoes are responsible for approximately one million deaths globally each year due to diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue fever, and malaria. In California, over 4,500 mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile virus in 2023, with 266 cases identified in the San Gabriel Valley. Farned confirmed that the virus has now been detected in Monterey Park, prompting heightened awareness among residents.

Farned outlined the district's integrated vector management program, which includes surveillance, community education, and targeted treatments to reduce mosquito populations. He introduced a new initiative called the BITE Mosquitoes Grama, aimed at identifying infrastructure issues that contribute to mosquito breeding. This program will provide cities with a prioritized list of sites needing repairs to mitigate public health risks.

The meeting also addressed recent adulticide treatments conducted in areas with elevated mosquito activity, specifically around Avenida Cesar Chavez and Atlantic Boulevard. These treatments, which utilize ultra-low volume pesticide applications, are designed to quickly reduce mosquito populations while ensuring safety for humans and pets. Farned reassured residents that all pesticides used are EPA-registered and chosen for their minimal environmental impact.

In closing, Farned urged residents to take proactive measures against mosquito bites by using EPA-approved repellents and eliminating standing water. The district remains committed to working with the city to enhance public health and safety in the face of rising mosquito populations and associated disease risks.