The first locally acquired case of dengue of the 2025 mosquito season was confirmed, Los Angeles County Public Health officials announced Wednesday.
A mosquito-borne illness was reported in a San Gabriel Valley resident with no history of travel to areas where dengue is endemic, officials said. The patient developed symptoms in September and is recovering.
“While the potential risk for widespread dengue virus transmission in Los Angeles County remains low, this case highlights the presence of infected mosquitoes locally and underscores the importance of preventive measures to control the spread of this virus,” health officials said in a statement.
Los Angeles public health officials launched an investigation in September after three people were confirmed to be infected with dengue, despite not having traveled to dengue-prone regions.
A total of 14 cases were reported during the 2024 mosquito season. According to LA County Public Health officials, it is extremely rare for an area where the virus had not previously been transmitted by mosquitoes.
“Dengue is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. It can take 5-7 days for a person to develop symptoms after being bitten by a mosquito infected with dengue. Persons infected with dengue may have flu-like symptoms including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. Severe dengue can result in shock, severe bleeding and severe organ impairment which require immediate medical attention,” wrote LA Public Health.
Steps to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:
- Use insect repellent on you and your family.
- Remove items that hold standing water around your home where mosquitoes can lay eggs and breed.
- Use, install, or repair window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.”
Source: NBC Los Angeles