Encephalitis Found in Valley Pigeons

Health officials are warning residents to avoid exposure to the St. Louis encephalitis virus, which has been detected in pigeons in the Sepulveda Dam Recreation Area in Encino.

The disease is spread to humans by mosquitoes that have ingested the blood of infected pigeons, Barbara Gondo of the Los Angeles County Department of Health said Thursday.

Gondo said officials have put up signs advising visitors to the dam to wear long-sleeved shirts and apply insect repellent.

The disease, which causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, can cause fever, headaches and nausea.

Officials are advising residents to check pots, jars, old tires and other sources of stagnant water that might be mosquito-breeding areas. Also, ponds, swimming pools and sprinklers should be properly maintained, Gondo said.