About mosquitos

There are 3,500 species of mosquitoes in the world; more than 50 are here in California. Be aware that while only a handful of species found locally are capable of transmitting diseases to humans, everyone should take steps to prevent mosquito infestation.

To report a mosquito problem, please call (310) 915-7370

Contact your doctor if you suspect you have West Nile virus or any other mosquito-borne disease.

Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. To help protect yourself, get rid of places where mosquitoes lay their eggs and grow. Aedes Mosquitoes are “container breeders” and prefer to lay eggs on the inside of water-filled containers or on stems of plants growing in water. These eggs can survive for years, even when dry. Any item that can hold a teaspoon of water or more can grow mosquitoes.

Basic Tips

• Look for anything that can hold water for more than three days.
• Dump and drain the water once a week: Empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw away all items that hold water.
• Tightly cover water storage containers, so that mosquitoes can’t get inside to lay eggs. Rain barrels must be tightly sealed at all entrances with 1/16th inch wire mesh and checked regularly.
• Use screens on windows and doors. Repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Check for mosquito larvae breeding in water holding plants inside your home (i.e. lucky bamboo, bromeliads, vases, plant saucers)
• Use air conditioning when available.
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air conditioned or screened rooms are not available or if sleeping outdoors.

Check these items on a regular basis for standing water

• Potted plant saucers and decorative pots
• Buckets and other containers
• Trash cans and trash can lids
• Recyclables & recycle collection bins
• Fountains, birdbaths, ponds
• Water bowls for pets
• Animal water troughs
• Bromeliads and other plants that naturally collect and hold water
• Leaky hoses, sprinklers, and/or faucets
• Rain barrels, cisterns, and/or homemade water collection and storage containers
• Swimming pool and/or spa
• Watering cans
• Lawn ornaments and/or lawn furniture
• Wheelbarrows
• Covers or tarps on boats, cars, or recreational vehicles
• Tree holes & low areas with persistent puddling
• Rain gutters/yard drains/French drains
• Street gutters and pot holes 

Consider using repellents

The Environmental Protection Agency features a list of EPA-registered insect repellents. When used as directed, EPA-registered insect repellents* are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, always check with your obstetrician before using any of the following products: DEET; Picaridin; IR3535; and oil of lemon eucalyptus. Find the insect repellent that’s right for you by using EPA’s search tool. Always follow product label instructions, reapply insect repellent as directed, do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing.

Consider clothing that helps protect you

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs.
• Cover crib, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting.
• Treat items, such as boots, pants, socks, and tents, with permethrin* or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear. Permethrin-treated clothing will protect you after multiple washings. See product information to find out how long the protection will last.
• If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions.
• Do not use permethrin products directly on skin.

Learn more about mosquitos and Los Angeles County West Vector at www.lawestvector.org