Vector-borne Disease

What is a Vector-Borne Disease?

A “vector-borne disease” is an infectious agent such as a virus, bacteria or parasite that is passed from a disease carrier (vector) to another organism.

West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a Flavivirus spread by certain species of mosquitoes. It is the most predominant mosquito borne disease in California, and is endemic in the state, which means it’s always present in the environment as it cycles between mosquitoes and a wide variety of bird species. Humans and other animals like horses are also susceptible but do not contribute to the disease cycle.

Zika Virus

Zika is spread mostly by the bite of the invasive Aedes species mosquitoes. These mosquitoes bite primarily during the day, indoors and outdoors.

Chikungunya

Chikungunya virus is transmitted to people by two species of mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus (also known as invasive Aedes). Both species are found in Los Angeles County.

Dengue

Dengue virus (DENV) is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause mild to severe acute febrile illness in humans. It is now endemic year round in most countries in the tropics and sub tropics. Dengue fever can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which are potentially life-threatening. Cases of dengue fever often experience a sudden onset of fever greater than 101…

Flea-borne Typhus

If wildlife or pets with no flea control come in close contact with people, the chances of getting sick from a flea bite is higher.

West Nile Virus is in San Gabriel Valley

Learn more about this virus and where it's been confirmed

Keep Zika Out

Public health agencies across the country are working together to prepare for localized Zika transmission, which is a very real issue. Vector control districts along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local and state health departments are identifying necessary actions to reduce the risk of a local epidemic, and protect the most vulnerable – our unborn children – from Zika.