Village News

According to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD), as of September 1, 14 cities have reported West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples and eight cities have reported WNV-positive birds. Two cities in North Orange County have reported two WNV-positive human infections. OCMVCD urges county residents to remain vigilant.

“West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples indicate that the virus is active in Orange County and there is an increased risk for residents to become infected with WNV through a mosquito bite,” said Director of Scientific Services Robert Cummings. West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds.  OCMVCD staff will continue to conduct surveillance, inspections and control measures for mosquitoes to prevent additional mosquito breeding, and will post WNV advisory signs alerting residents of high WNV activity in affected areas.

What OCMVCD Is Doing

The OCMVCD definitely has seen an increase in service requests from the Laguna Woods area, according to Lora Young, director of communications for OCMVCD. 

“The mosquitoes that are currently impacting Village residents are Aedes mosquitoes, which prefer to breed in smaller sources such as plant saucers, containers and small fountains. We do not see these mosquitoes developing in creeks and larger waterways,” Young said. “The creek is under treatment and does not breed mosquitoes; we have verified this, and our flood team and inspector are proactive in inspecting these areas. Residents need to be aware that treating the creek does not change its appearance; [treatment] does not include brush or weed removal.”

Young appeared on Village Television’s “This Day” in June. To watch her interview, click here.

What Village Residents Can Do  

“It is essential for residents to do their part and take charge of their yard,” said Young. “The best way to protect yourself is by applying EPA-registered repellent, wearing long sleeved clothing and eliminating potential breeding sources around your property.”

Village residents should take the following precautions to help reduce the chances of breeding mosquitoes:

• Dump and drain any containers filled with water at least once a week.
• Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly.
• Dump water from potted plant saucers.
• Do not transport or share plant clippings rooted in water.
• Drill a hole or puncture containers to eliminate standing water.

Information and Resources

• Visit ocvector.org for more OCMVCD mosquito information.
• Visit ocvector.org/west-nile-virus to learn more about WNV. 
• Read how you can “Tip, Toss & Take Action” to prevent mosquito breeding and infestation. 
• Click here to submit service requests to OCMVCD.
• Download the April/May Village Breeze, which offers comprehensive information on how you can help keep the Aedes ankle-biting mosquito out of our community in “Don’t Give ‘Em a Biting Chance” on Page 20.  

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