Long Beach, CA ~ As summer approaches, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services (Health Department) is urging residents to take necessary precautions to control mosquitoes. City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis advises that following these precautions can protect individuals from mosquito-borne diseases.

Mosquito bites can cause more than just skin irritation. These pesky insects can also transmit germs and diseases such as West Nile virus (WNV), Zika virus, malaria, dengue virus, and St. Louis encephalitis virus.

According to Dr. Davis, mosquito control is a shared responsibility that requires active participation from the community. The Health Department recommends the following steps to reduce the threat of mosquitoes:

- Check for containers that can hold water and ensure they are kept dry and empty. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in as little as ¼-inch of water.

- Clean and scrub bird baths and outdoor pet water bowls at least once a week.

- Empty water from potted plant saucers.

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- After using water-related play areas such as kiddie pools or water slides, make sure to empty them and clean them at least once a week.

- Keep swimming pools clean and chlorinated, and drain any standing water from pool covers.

- Limit watering of lawns and outdoor plants.

- Install screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.

- Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET to prevent mosquito bites. This is safe for children over two months old, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers when used as directed.

Residents are encouraged to report any increased mosquito activity or neglected/green pools by calling 562.570.4132 or submitting an online report at longbeach.gov/mosquitoes.

In addition, it is important to report any dead birds by calling 1.877.WNV.BIRD or online at westnile.ca.gov. This information helps track the spread of diseases carried by mosquitoes.

For more information on mosquitoes and additional prevention tips, residents can visit longbeach.gov/health and follow the Health Department on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Media inquiries can be directed to Jennifer Rice Epstein, Public Affairs Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services, at 562.441.3590 or Jennifer.RiceEpstein@longbeach.gov.

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