LA County reports first cases of homegrown dengue fever

LOS ANGELES — Health officials warn of an unprecedented local transmission of dengue fever in Los Angeles County, marking a significant shift in the presence of tropical diseases in California.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has reported four cases of locally acquired dengue fever this month, indicating that people were infected within their communities rather than while traveling abroad. Three cases were documented in Baldwin Park, located in the San Gabriel Valley, with the most recent case reported on September 25 in Panorama City, approximately 30 miles northwest.

Until last year, all dengue cases reported in California were associated with travel to countries where the disease is common. The recent local transmissions represent a notable change in the disease's pattern within the state.

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral disease typically found in tropical and subtropical areas, is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This species is recognizable by its black color with white stripes on its legs and abdomen.

The emergence of local dengue transmission coincides with a record mosquito population this year, including fluorescent mosquitoes. Officials suggest the October heat wave may contribute to the mosquitoes' rapid proliferation and virus spread.

Dengue fever symptoms typically appear four to ten days after a mosquito bite and can last for two to seven days. According to the World Health Organization, common symptoms include high fever (104° F), severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rash.

Health officials emphasize that while dengue fever is not typically fatal, it can cause severe discomfort. There is no specific medication to treat the virus; most cases resolve within one to two weeks.

In rare instances, dengue fever can become severe and potentially life-threatening, particularly in individuals infected for a second time. Severe symptoms may include intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums or nose, and extreme fatigue. Health authorities urge anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.

To prevent the spread of dengue fever, public health officials recommend several measures:

1. Use insect repellent when outdoors
2. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
3. Stay in well-ventilated areas and use air conditioning instead of opening windows
4. Eliminate standing water around homes and workplaces where mosquitoes can breed
5. Cover, empty, or dispose of containers that can collect water
6. Keep swimming pools clean and chlorinated

While the appearance of locally transmitted dengue fever in Los Angeles County is concerning, health officials remain cautiously optimistic about containing its spread through aggressive mosquito control measures and public education efforts.

For more information about dengue fever and prevention strategies, residents can visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website or contact their local health clinic.