Mosquito sample in Glendale tests positive for West Nile virus

A mosquito sample collected in Glendale tested positive for West Nile virus, making it the first sign of the disease in the city this year.

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District confirmed Friday the infected mosquito sample was collected from the 91208 area, which includes the neighborhoods of Sparr Heights, Oakmont, Whiting Woods, Verdugo Woodlands, Montecito Park, San Rafael Hills and Rancho San Rafael.

Last week, Santa Fe Springs, Bellflower and Lakewood were also added to a growing list of cities where the virus was discovered.

West Nile virus is spread by a bite from an infected mosquito. It affects the central nervous system and can cause serious illness with symptoms that include fever, body aches, nausea and vomiting.

District officials advised residents to guard against infected mosquitoes by eliminating standing pools of water, properly maintain swimming pools or ponds and to wear insect repellent when they are outdoors.

West Nile virus symptoms appear five to 15 days after a person was bit from an infected mosquito. The most severe cases can result in death.

A Sacramento County man has been the only death linked to the virus so far this year, according to the California Department of Public Health.

Eight dead birds carrying the disease have been discovered in Los Angeles County so far this year.

To report a dead bird, call (877) 968-2473, or visit westnile.ca.gov.

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Follow Veronica Rocha on Google+ and on Twitter: @VeronicaRochaLA.

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