Two more cases of mosquito-borne dengue virus were confirmed in Baldwin Park on Wednesday, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
Including the case announced last week, the three cases constitute an “unprecedented number of locally transmitted cases for a region where dengue has not previously been transmitted by mosquitoes,” according to the DPH.
The two latest victims of the virus had no history of travel to regions where dengue is endemic before they began showing symptoms, authorities said.
“Ensuring the health and safety of our community is our top priority,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis. “The recent discovery of dengue cases in Baldwin Park underscores the need to be vigilant and take proactive measures.”
An Aedes mosquito, commonly called the ankle-biting mosquito, prefers humans over animals and can transmit dengue fever.
(Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District)
Dengue is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which is common in Los Angeles County, public health officials said. However, locally acquired cases of 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 cause 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 diseases, including dengue fever,” said Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis in a news release. “This can be as simple as using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites, eliminating standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed, and keeping your home mosquito-free by using or installing screens on doors and windows.”
