Two more cases of the mosquito-borne dengue virus were confirmed Wednesday in Baldwin Park, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
Including cases were announced last weekthe three cases constitute an “unprecedented number of locally transmitted cases for a region where dengue has not previously been transmitted by mosquitoes,” according to DPH.
The two latest victims of the virus have no history of travel to regions where dengue is endemic before they started showing symptoms, officials said.
“Ensuring the health and safety of our community is our highest priority,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis. “The recent discovery of dengue cases in Baldwin Park underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures.”
An Aedes mosquito, commonly called the ankle biter, prefers humans to animals and can carry dengue.
(Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District)
Dengue is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which is common in LA County, public health officials said. However, cases of locally acquired dengue are rare; all previous cases in the county have been associated with travel to a country where the disease is widespread.
The dengue virus causes symptoms such as fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, rash and bleeding. Severe cases can involve organ damage, shock and severe bleeding.
“Reducing exposure to mosquitoes and the risk of mosquito bites is critical to preventing the transmission of mosquito-borne disease, including dengue fever,” Los Angeles County Health Director Muntu Davis said in a news release. “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.”