Long Beach, California, Confirms First Human Case of St. Louis Encephalitis in Nearly Four Decades
Long Beach, California, recently reported its first human case of St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE) since 1984, according to an announcement from the city's health department. While the infected person is currently recovering at home after hospitalization, the case has raised concerns about the potentially severe consequences of this mosquito-borne virus.
What is St. Louis Encephalitis?
St. Louis Encephalitis is a virus transmitted by certain infected mosquitoes, with the culex species being the primary carriers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that the typical transmission cycle involves infected common birds, such as pigeons and sparrows, being bitten by mosquitoes. Subsequently, these infected mosquitoes bite humans, passing on the virus. Notably, humans are considered "dead end hosts," and the virus cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
While most people infected with SLE do not show symptoms, those who do may experience fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and tiredness. In rare cases, individuals may develop neuroinvasive disease, leading to long-term disability or death. People aged 50 and older with underlying health conditions are at a greater risk of experiencing severe symptoms.
Prevention and Guidelines
As there are no vaccines or specific medicines to prevent SLE, health officials emphasize the importance of preventive measures. Residents are encouraged to protect themselves against mosquitoes by:
- Using mosquito repellents with DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (not recommended for children under 3).
- Wearing loosely fitted, long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Eliminating standing water around properties.
- Keeping vegetation trimmed, as adult mosquitoes tend to rest in such areas.
- Changing water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and small containers weekly.
- Maintaining swimming pools, spas, and ponds properly.
Community Responsibility
In response to the confirmed case, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the shared responsibility for mosquito control. The city is working closely with healthcare providers to educate the community and prevent additional cases of SLE. Residents are urged to actively participate in reducing the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses in their neighborhoods.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of public health vigilance, and officials are committed to collaborative efforts to address and mitigate the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
