To the Vanguard News Home page 6-9-05 Los Angeles – With the recent discovery of West Nile Virus in Lancaster, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich has directed the Public Health Officer to increase surveillance in the Antelope Valley and to work closely with local communities to provide updated information on the County’s prevention efforts and preparation for the West Nile Virus.
In his motion, Supervisor Antonovich has requested updates on coordination with the mosquito and vector control districts, and efforts to inform the public through West Nile Virus education meetings conducted by the County’s Public Health Educators and Public Health Nurses. The County is currently working with City Councils and Town Councils in the Leona Valley, Lake Hughes and Lake Elizabeth, Quartz Hill, the Rural Town Council Association, and conducted outreach to seniors groups and distributed information to local horse owners.
“As we enter mosquito season and West Nile virus cases are identified, it is vital to pursue every possible avenue to protect individuals and animals from infection,” said Antonovich.
To reduce the West Nile threat in your yard and your neighborhood:
Get rid of standing water – Empty containers and keep pools and spas chlorinated.
Set sprinklers to allow the ground to dry completely before the next cycle.
Get mosquito-eating fish for fish ponds, decorative pools or large horse troughs.
Wear long sleeved shirts and pants and use CDC recommended mosquito repellents.
Keep tight fitting screens on doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out.
Make sure horses are properly vaccinated.
Report dead birds and stagnant pools to 1-877-968-2473 or visit www.westnile.ca.gov .
For further information, contact the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District by phone (661-942-2917) or log on to www.avmosquito.org