Officials warned San Fernando Valley residents of the threat of West Nile virus Wednesday, saying the region hosts higher levels of affected mosquitos than in surrounding areas.
In communities including Canoga Park, Encino and Sherman Oaks, nine or more mosquitos have tested positive for the virus, according to a news release from the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.
The warning follows an announcement by state health officials earlier this month that the proportion of mosquitoes infected with West Nile is at the highest level ever recorded in California.
To avoid transmission of the virus, which can happen to people or animals through the bite of an infected mosquito, vector control recommends that people use mosquito repellents that contain lemon eucalyptus oil, DEET, Picaridin or IR3535.
Residents should also report and avoid dirty, green pools.
There is no cure for the virus. Two fatalities from the virus were reported in August, one man in Los Angeles County and a woman in Orange County.
