In a follow-up on the dengue fever situation in Los Angeles County, California, county health authorities report investigating two additional cases of locally acquired dengue in residents of the City of Baldwin Park. These residents have no history of travel to areas where dengue is endemic prior to their symptoms.
This now brings the total number of cases of locally acquired dengue in LA County in 2024 to three, which is an unprecedented number of locally transmitted cases for a region where dengue has not previously been transmitted by mosquitoes.
Although Aedes mosquitoes are common in LA County, cases of locally acquired dengue are extremely rare. Almost all previously reported dengue cases in LA County have been associated with travel to a country where dengue is commonly spread.
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These additional cases of local virus transmission are a stark reminder for all Los Angeles County residents that simple steps to prevent mosquito breeding and mosquito bites can lower the risk of mosquito-borne diseases and prevent more sustained transmission in the future.
“Reducing exposure to mosquitoes and the risk for mosquito bites are crucial to preventing transmission of mosquito-borne disease, including dengue fever,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer. “This can be as simple as using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, eliminating any standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed, and keeping your home mosquito-free by using or fixing screens on your doors and windows. These straightforward measures can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease for both you and your neighbors."
"Ensuring the health and safety of our community is our top priority," said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, First District. "The recent discovery of dengue cases in Baldwin Park underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures. My office is coordinating closely with our Department of Public Health to expand immediate preventative strategies. I am committed to keeping residents informed, and will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard the well-being of our families.”
"The City of Baldwin Park is aware of the recent cases of locally acquired dengue in our community. While the risk of transmission remains low, we must take this situation seriously and act proactively," said Mayor Emmanuel J. Estrada, who serves as a trustee representing Baldwin Park on the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District board." As part of the vector control district, our City is working closely with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to monitor the situation and implement necessary control measures. The City will continue to update the community throughout this process. In the meantime, we urge all residents to use EPA-registered insect repellent, eliminate standing water around your homes and ensure your window and door screens are in good condition. Let's demonstrate the strength of the Baldwin Park community by working together to protect our community and limit the spread of dengue."
Public Health is working with local vector control agencies, the City of Baldwin Park and Public Health outreach teams to provide door-to-door information on dengue risk and mosquito bite prevention and control measures in the local area. The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has increased mosquito trapping for identification and testing and abatement operations to reduce the risk of additional spread in the affected neighborhood.
“The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District's efforts are ongoing and include aggressive mosquito control, enhanced surveillance, and active engagement with the community.” said District Manager Jason Farned. “Meanwhile, residents are urged to do two things, eliminate standing water from their own properties and protect themselves from mosquito bites.”