First Pigs, Now Mosquitos

A mosquito collected in Carson tested positive for West Nile virus -- the first to be confirmed with the virus in Los Angeles County this year, officials said Monday.

The mosquito was included in a sample of the insects collected in the 90745 ZIP code, according to the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.

Although it was the first mosquito to test positive in Los Angeles, eight others have tested positive statewide, according to the district, which warned that 2009 was expected to have an active West Nile virus season.

Residents were advised to eliminate standing water on their properties where mosquitoes can breed, stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active and use insect repellants to prevent bites.

Last year, there were 445 human cases of the virus in California, and 15 people died.