Buzzword Newsletter

“The Buzzword Blog takes you behind the scenes of the scientific world of vector control.”

Zika swoops into neighborhoods undetected using travelers, new research confirms

A series of papers published about the spread of Zika virus shows startling information that confirms what many people have suspected: Aedes mosquitoes spread the Zika virus in Florida at least 3 times before it was finally detected. Up to 40 people may have contributed to the Florida Zika outbreaks. In areas such as Puerto Rico, the virus circulated about 5 months … Read More

Keep Zika Out! Workshop in Bellflower

There are0 minutesin a day Can you spare 60 minutes to protect your family's health? Keep Zika Out! WorkshopThe Aedes aegypti mosquito is in Bellflower and has the potential to transmit Zika.This engaging workshop will bring vector control and residents together for an hour. We will explore the scenario of a Zika outbreak and current Aedes mosquito infestation in Bellflower. Participants will: Gain ... Read More

Vector Control Identifies Hotspots with High Mosquito Disease Threats

At the beginning of every year, the Community Affairs department in GLACVCD identifies key hotspots that have historically higher-than-average virus and mosquito activity. Combined with other data, the final report allows outreach activities to preemptively engage with residents before mosquito and virus activities peak. It is important to note that this list will constantly change throughout the year as vector … Read More

Traveling Soon? Stay Safe With These Tips

The California Dept. of Public Health provided some great tips last month for travelers visiting places that have active Zika transmission. Recently, Mexican officials confirmed a case of local transmission in Ensenada, Baja California, a coastal city in Mexico. In addition, more than 8,000 Zika cases have been reported throughout Mexico in the past two years. “Many Californians enjoy spending time in … Read More

Study Prediction: More mosquito species can transmit Zika

  A recent study is causing some concern: Up to 35 total mosquitoes are capable of transmitting Zika virus, including species already known to be Zika vectors. Here is the list of possible mosquitoes that can vector (transmit) Zika virus, according to the study: Before we all start diving into our mosquito-proof bunkers, it is important to point out that … Read More

“Keep Zika Out” Workshops in Carson

Residents unite with community leaders and vector control to fight mosquitoesSpring is right around the corner and so are warm temperatures...the perfect time for mosquitoes and viruses to begin spreading! All Carson residents are invited to these FREE public health workshops. Vector Control will be teaching people about the best tips to keep their kids safe, their communities mosquito-free, and ... Read More

Where in California are Aedes Mosquitoes?

After learning that invasive Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are in their community, many residents wonder where else they could be in California. Wonder no more. Here is an interactive map showing confirmed invasive Aedes mosquitoes throughout the state of California. Click HERE to launch map. To see a list of cities and communities infested with Aedes mosquitoes within … Read More

Zika Study: Birth defects, including microcephaly can occur later

2016 photos show Brazilian infants born with microcephaly caused by the Zika virus. (Felipe Dana/AP) Recently, a CDC study from December 2015 is making rounds around the Internet and within the public health industry. The study confirmed that microcephaly (abnormal brain development) can occur several months to a year after a child has been born. According to the study, "these ... Read More

Where Does Vector Control Go During the Winter?

During the winter, mosquitoes are the last thing people in Southern California think about. Does this mean that vector control go into hibernation until spring? Not quite. As we see in this video, vector control still need to stay on top of mosquitoes throughout winter. In the underground storm drains, millions of mosquitoes hunker down from the cold. In addition, … Read More