Los Angeles County is facing an unprecedented public health challenge with the confirmation of a fourth locally transmitted dengue fever case in just over two weeks. None of the affected patients had traveled to dengue-endemic regions, signaling the virus is now spreading via infected mosquitoes in the area.

Muntu Davis, the county’s health officer, emphasized the need for community action to stop the ongoing transmission. “Preventing mosquito bites and mosquito breeding is the best way to stop the local transmission of dengue,” he said.

Residents are urged to take precautions such as using insect repellent, eliminating standing water, and ensuring screens are intact on windows and doors. This marks the first instance of local dengue transmission in the region, coinciding with a surge in global dengue cases this year.

Stay informed and protect your family by visiting the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website for more details.