West Nile virus is active in the greater Los Angeles area. With a confirmed case just miles from our service area, now is the time for residents across Compton, Lynwood, Paramount, and Rancho Dominguez to take precautions seriously. This is not a distant risk — it is a local one.

What Is West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus (WNV) is the most commonly transmitted mosquito-borne illness in California. It is spread through the bite of an infected Culex mosquito — the same species present throughout our service area. The virus is not spread through person-to-person contact, touching, or sharing food.

Most people who contract West Nile Virus experience no symptoms at all. However, approximately one in 150 infected individuals may develop neuroinvasive disease — a serious condition that can include brain inflammation, meningitis, paralysis, and in rare cases, death. Older adults and those with chronic health conditions face a higher risk of severe illness.

Symptoms to Watch For

What Residents Should Do Right Now

Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District is actively monitoring mosquito activity throughout our service area. While we work at the community level, personal and household protection begins at home. The following steps are the most effective measures available to residents during an active WNV alert period.

Protect Yourself Outdoors

• Apply an EPA-approved insect repellent to all exposed skin before going outside — Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) is a plant-based option recommended by the CDC. Visit epa.gov/insect-repellents for the full list of approved products
• Wear long sleeves and long pants when outdoors at dusk and dawn — Culex mosquitoes are most active during these hours and are the primary carriers of West Nile Virus
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home

Eliminate Breeding Sites at Home

• Dump and drain all standing water around your home — flower pot trays, buckets, coolers, children's toys, and any container that holds water are potential breeding sites
• Check garden beds, plant saucers, and low spots in your yard after watering — in July's heat, mosquitoes can develop from egg to adult in as little as five days
• Inspect shaded areas along fence lines and block walls where water collects and evaporates slowly
• Change bird bath water every three to five days
• If you have a backyard pond or ornamental water feature, contact Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District to request free mosquitofish — a natural, chemical-free solution for controlling mosquito larvae

What Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District Is Doing

Compton Creek Mosquito Abatement District monitors mosquito activity and West Nile Virus risk throughout our 12.5 square mile service area — which serves approximately 100,000 residents in Compton, Lynwood, Paramount, and Rancho Dominguez. Our district coordinates with the California Department of Public Health and Los Angeles County on surveillance and response efforts throughout the season.

We encourage every resident to report unusual mosquito activity, standing water on public property, and dead birds in our service area. Community reporting is one of the most important tools available for early detection and response.