'A living hell': how Los Angeles got taken over by mosquitoes
Heat and humidity have led to one of the worst mosquito years in recent history, with West Nile virus at a decade high
TL;DR
- Los Angeles is experiencing an unprecedented mosquito infestation, exacerbated by heatwaves and El Niño.
- West Nile virus cases have reached a decade high in Los Angeles County, with over 180 documented cases this year.
- Invasive Aedes mosquitoes, which target humans and can spread diseases like dengue, are proliferating due to moisture.
- Native Culex quinquefasciatus ('quinx') mosquitoes transmit West Nile virus after biting infected birds.
- Control methods include eliminating standing water, using insecticides, and releasing sterile male mosquitoes, but face challenges like public access and cost.
- Residents are advised to use repellents and cover up to avoid bites, as mosquito season is expected to continue.
- Electric fly swatters are suggested as a 'fulfilling' way to deal with lingering mosquitoes indoors.