Mosquito season is back and this year brings new public health concerns for Los Angeles County residents as West Nile virus positions itself to resurge due to ideal ecological conditions. But, there is also another force impacting resurgence. The explosion of home foreclosures has not only pushed the State’s economy to the brink, it has vector control agencies working over-time to control the proliferating populations of potential disease-carrying mosquitoes breeding in abandoned swimming pools.
This year, the number of homes headed towards or in foreclosure has risen dramatically. The statistics are a shocking wake-up call to the housing sector, but offers residents little information about the looming public health crisis.
Empty houses can hide un-maintained swimming pools, spas, fountains, and bird baths, which can provide the stagnant water needed for mosquitoes to complete their life cycle.
Within the 1,330 square miles serviced by the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, there are thousands of out-of-service swimming pools that require routine mosquito treatment. The number is climbing every day, as abandoned swimming pools from vacant homes are reported.
This increase in backyard breeding sources may lead to a rise in West Nile virus transmission. West Nile virus is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes and may lead to debilitating health conditions such as encephalitis, paralysis, coma and even death.
In 2007, 380 human cases of West Nile virus were reported in California resulting in 21 deaths. There were a total of 43 human infections and 3 fatalities in Los Angeles County alone. The deaths were the first in the County since the major West Nile virus outbreak in 2004.
So far this year, West Nile virus activity has already been detected in 19 counties in California including Los Angeles, Orange County, and Riverside. The California Department of Public Health predicts the virus will again pose a serious public health threat in 2008.
The best defense against disease transmission is being proactive and taking precautions to protect from mosquito bites. Follow these simple steps to protect yourself and your family:
• Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long-sleeve shirts and pants when engaging in outdoor activities during these hours.
• Apply approved insect repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Keep tight-fitting screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Eliminate all sources of standing water around your home and property and properly maintain ornamental ponds, pools, and spas.
• Contact the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at (562)944-9656 (Santa Fe Springs Headquarters) or (818)364-9589 (Sylmar Branch) to report any significant mosquito problems in your neighborhood or visit online at www.glacvcd.org.
Real estate professionals who encounter vacant homes with potential mosquito breeding sources should submit a service request to the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District. Vector Control Specialists can treat the pool for mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of West Nile virus transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Swimming Pools
How do I keep mosquitoes from breeding in my pool?
You can prevent mosquito breeding by properly maintaining your pool using chlorine and a filter system. Prevent the growth of algae by using appropriate chemicals. Consult a pool professional for further instructions.
Will I get cited if my pool is green?
The California State Health and Safety Code authorizes public health agencies to levy fines up to $1,000 a day if the pool is declared a public health risk.
I drained my pool a few years ago. What can I do with rain water that puddles at the bottom of the pool?
Treat the accumulated water with chlorine and other approved chemicals to prevent mosquito breeding. Upon request, the District will also deliver free mosquitofish to residents for placement in backyard swimming pools, ponds, and fountains.
My city has instituted mandatory water conservation measures which prohibit me from adding any water to my pool. What can I do to prevent mosquito breeding?
Follow the steps above to prevent mosquito breeding and be sure to notify the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District if mosquito control services are required.
Where can I go for more information?
You can contact the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District by calling (562)944-9656 (Santa Fe Springs) or (818)364-9589 (Sylmar Branch). You can also visit our website at www.glacvcd.org. The California Department of Public Health is also a great source for up-to-date information on West Nile virus. Visit www.westnile.ca.gov or call the department’s toll-free hotline to report a dead bird or squirrel at 877-WNV-BIRD
[from the Southland Regional Association of Realtors website, www.srar.com]
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