Public Health officials identify mosquito pool positive for St. Louis Encephalitis

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - The Imperial County Public Health Department (ICPHD) announced that a local mosquito pool had tested positive for St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE). 

The mosquito pool was identified in the City of Imperial on South E Street. 

“As the weather warms up, mosquitoes become more active, which increases the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. These diseases can be serious, so it is important that individuals protect themselves from mosquito bites,” stated Stephen Munday, M.D., Health Officer. “Residents are encouraged to take steps to eliminate any standing water on their property that could serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.” 

The Public Health Department’s Vector Control Program has set 52 mosquito traps placed in areas throughout the county within city limits.   

“Our agency will continue monitoring disease activity and treat affected areas,” said Jeff Lamoure, Deputy Director of Environmental Health. “Although the positive mosquitoes were collected in a specific area, all county residents should take precautions, like wearing insect repellent and minimizing outdoor activity at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.” 

Symptoms of SLE include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and tiredness 

According to ICPHD, individuals can prevent and reduce their risk of catching a mosquito-borne disease by applying insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

ICPHD also said to limit time outdoors during dawn and early evenings, and when outdoors, wear loose-fitting, light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants.