The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed a locally acquired case of dengue fever from a resident in Baldwin Park who has no history of travel to areas where dengue is endemic. This marks a significant public health concern, as dengue is primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito species, commonly known as "ankle biters."

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that can cause flu-like symptoms such as:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Rash
• Mild bleeding
• Nausea or vomiting

In severe cases, dengue can lead to life-threatening conditions like dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, both of which require immediate medical care.

What is Being Done?

In response to this case, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has increased mosquito trapping, testing, and abatement efforts in Baldwin Park to prevent further spread. Public Health is also working with local agencies to provide door-to-door information on mosquito bite prevention.

Dr. Muntu Davis, the L.A. County Health Officer, emphasized, "This case indicates dengue fever is present in our community. While the likelihood of widespread transmission is low, we must remain vigilant through public education and mosquito control."

How to Protect Yourself:

Mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes species, thrive in warm weather. Here’s how you can protect yourself and reduce the risk of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases:

1. Use Insect Repellent:
   Apply EPA-registered insect repellents to protect yourself from bites.
2. Wear Long Sleeves and Pants:
   Cover exposed skin when outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
3. Eliminate Standing Water:
   Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so drain items like flower pots, buckets, and birdbaths regularly to reduce breeding grounds.
4. Install and Repair Window Screens:
   Make sure your home’s windows and doors are properly screened to keep mosquitoes out.

About Dengue:

Dengue is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions like the Caribbean, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. While most cases in L.A. County are from travelers returning from these regions, local transmission has been confirmed in Baldwin Park, Long Beach, and Pasadena in recent years.

There are no specific treatments for dengue fever, but supportive medicines can help manage symptoms like fever and pain. While a dengue vaccine exists, it is not approved for use in U.S. travelers who visit dengue-endemic regions.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family from dengue fever, visit the L.A. County Public Health Department’s dengue fever webpage.

Stay informed, stay safe, and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites.