Pasadena Public Health Department Issues Updated Mosquito Protection Guidelines

[Photo courtesy of San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District]

As warm weather has arrived and hot weather seems around the corner, mosquito activity increases. The Pasadena Public Health Department is reminding residents about crucial steps to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites and the diseases they can transmit. The department underscores the importance of vigilance and adherence to updated guidelines to ensure public safety.

Understanding Mosquito Activity

While mosquito activity peaks during the hot summer months, some mosquito species in California can breed during winter, necessitating year-round vigilance. Residents should remain aware that mosquitoes can emerge during unexpected warm spells even in colder months.

Effective Repellent Use

To protect yourself from mosquito bites, use an EPA-registered insect repellent according to label instructions. These products have undergone rigorous testing for safety and efficacy. For short outdoor activities, a repellent with approximately 10% active ingredient is effective, while extended exposure may require 20-30% concentrations. Always apply repellent to hands first before applying to the face, avoid spraying directly onto the face, and do not apply to cuts or open wounds. Wash hands after application. It is also important to note that products containing permethrin are designed for application to clothing and gear only, not directly to skin.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

For children, dress them in clothing that covers arms and legs, and use mosquito nets over cribs and strollers. When using insect repellent, follow label directions carefully. Importantly, repellents containing Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) or Para-menthane-diol (PMD) should NOT be used on children younger than three years.

For DEET-based products, concentrations up to 30% are generally considered safe for children two months of age and older, but always consult product labels. Older adults (over 60) and pregnant individuals are also at greater risk of severe illness from mosquito-borne diseases and should take consistent precautions.

Local Disease Landscape

While the risk of exposure to dengue for Pasadena residents remains low, the Pasadena Public Health Department reported the first locally-acquired case of dengue in California in 2023, with a second case identified in a Pasadena resident with no recent travel history. West Nile virus remains endemic in Los Angeles County.

Know Your Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus, primarily Culex mosquitoes, are most active and bite most frequently at dawn and dusk. If individuals plan to be outdoors during these times, repellent use is recommended.

Aedes mosquitoes, which can carry dengue and Zika viruses, are more likely to bite during daylight hours.

Community Action and Reporting

A crucial step in prevention is eliminating standing water around your home, as mosquitoes lay eggs in even small amounts of water. Regularly empty containers like clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, pet dishes, and bird baths. Ensure swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.

To report mosquito infestations or neglected swimming pools in Pasadena, residents should contact their local Vector Control District. For the City of Pasadena, individuals can call the Pasadena Public Health Department Environmental Health Division at (626) 744-6004, or the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District at (626) 814-9466. More information can also be found at SoCalMosquito.org.

Additionally, if you find a dead bird on your property, please report it to the West Nile Virus and Dead Bird Hotline at (877) 968-2473 or online at westnile.ca.gov, as this aids in surveillance efforts.