Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus emerge in LA, What you can do

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (FOX 11 / CNS) - Vector-control officials Monday confirmed the West Nile virus-positive batch of mosquitoes in Los Angeles County this year.

The mosquitoes were collected in a trap in Sun Valley. Officials with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District warned residents that the mosquitoes are active and capable of spreading the infection to people.

"This is a reminder that the mosquito season isn't just limited to summer,'' according to Kelly Middleton, community affairs director for the district.

Mosquitoes typically become carriers of the virus after feeding on an infected bird and can then spread the potentially lethal strain to animals and humans.

Those at greatest risk include seniors and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Symptoms may never materialize, but can include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, skin rashes and swollen lymph nodes.

To reduce exposure to West Nile virus, residents are urged to:

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