The Long Beach Health Department reported a human case of St. Louis Encephalitis (SLEV) in the city yesterday, the first since 1984. According to the press release, the individual is presently in recovery at home following a hospitalization period. In response, Long Beach officials are alerting the community to the threats posed by mosquitoes, carriers of SLEV, and the urgency of reporting mosquito control problems.
Having an understanding of mosquito-borne diseases is important for residents of Los Angeles County and beyond. SLEV, akin to West Nile Virus (WNV), is transmitted to humans through culex mosquitoes. Although SLEV is less prevalent in California, not unlike WNV, many infected don't realize they have the disease due to similar symptoms such as fever, headache, and nausea. Therefore, public awareness is key for effective detection and response.
With this recent case, the SLEV count in California for 2023 is now at 12. Despite what might seem alarming, local officials assuage fears by maintaining that the risk remains relatively low. The Long Beach Health Department is closely monitoring and managing the situation through partnerships with local healthcare providers and vector control agencies.
Local health officials propose several preventive strategies to protect yourself against mosquitoes and diseases like SLEV:
- Apply mosquito repellent with DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus. (Not to apply oil of lemon eucalyptus on children younger than three-years-old)
- Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.
- Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, water troughs, and other containers.
- Proper maintenance of hedges, vines, weeds, and grass as mosquitoes tend to rest in vegetation.
- Regularly change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and small containers.
- Proper maintenance of swimming pools, spas, and ponds.
- Report neglected swimming pools and other mosquito control problems to the Health Department's Vector Control Program.
People in higher-risk categories, for instance, those over 50 and those with medical conditions, should especially adopt these preventive measures. Severe cases of SLEV, although infrequent, can lead to symptoms such as stiff necks, confusion, dizziness, and occasionally, fatalities. Presently, there are no specific vaccines or medicines to prevent or treat SLEV. However, healthcare providers can suggest treatments including rest, fluids, and medication for pain and fever.
Commenting on the recent SLEV case, Long Beach Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis stated, "SLEV in Long Beach should serve as a reminder that we need to protect ourselves against mosquitoes." Highlighting that mosquitoes can pose health risks, she urged residents to stay vigilant in mosquito control-related matters.
