The Los Angeles Post

Los Angeles County Investigates Fifth Locally Acquired Dengue Case in El Monte

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Los Angeles, CA (October 1, 2024 LAPost) – The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is investigating a fifth case of locally acquired dengue virus in a resident of El Monte. The individual has no travel history to regions where dengue is common, marking this as another case of local transmission. This case is unrelated to the previously reported dengue cases in the area and highlights a rare emergence of dengue in LA County, where the virus is not typically spread by mosquitoes.

Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer, issued a public warning:

“This case further indicates that dengue can spread in our community. Preventing mosquito bites and breeding is the best way to stop local transmission of dengue.”

Dr. Davis urged residents to use insect repellents, remove standing water where mosquitoes breed, and ensure screens on windows and doors are intact to keep mosquitoes out of homes.

Symptoms and Public Health Advisory

Dengue symptoms, which can develop 4-7 days after a bite from an infected mosquito, include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and rash. More severe cases can lead to shock, severe bleeding, or organ impairment, requiring immediate medical attention. Residents who experience symptoms should contact their healthcare providers for evaluation, and blood tests are required to confirm dengue infection.

Public Health is working closely with the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District to increase mosquito surveillance and implement abatement operations to reduce further transmission risks in the affected neighborhood.

Jason Farned, District Manager of the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, stated:

“We are intensifying efforts with targeted treatments, surveillance, and inspections. Residents play a critical role in reducing mosquito breeding by eliminating standing water.”

Preventive Measures for Residents

To protect themselves and the community, residents are advised to take the following actions:

  • Wear mosquito repellent: Use EPA-approved repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or other effective ingredients.
  • Prevent mosquito breeding: Eliminate standing water in flowerpots, birdbaths, or containers, and keep pools clean and covered.
  • Keep mosquitoes out of homes: Repair any damaged screens on windows and doors.

The first confirmed locally acquired dengue case in LA County was reported on September 9, 2024. This is the fifth case this year and follows local transmission confirmed in Long Beach and Pasadena in 2023.

For more information on dengue prevention and treatment, visit publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/VectorDengue.htm or call the Public Health InfoLine at 1-833-540-0473 for assistance.

About Dengue

Dengue is a mosquito-borne virus common in tropical regions, though local transmission can occur in parts of the United States. Symptoms typically last 2-7 days, with most people recovering after about a week. While there is no specific treatment, supportive care can alleviate symptoms. Severe cases require immediate medical attention.