In the late August of 2023, Storm Hillary passed by the southern region of the golden state in the United States. With the Storm Hillary increasing the humidity level in the SoCal region, the number of mosquitoes in the region have heavily amplified. Due to this situation, residents of the SoCal region of the state have been experiencing severe impacts.

According to the Los Angeles Times,an average of 28 female Aedes mosquitoes were caught in traps each night during the week of September 11, which is about seven times more than the five-year average. During that week, Culex mosquitoes averaged over 55 each trap-night, a significant increase from the five-year weekly normal of roughly 34. This severe increase of the mosquitoes have left the residents of the Golden state in a state of distress and concerns. Especially since mosquitoes are capable of spreading the Mosquitoes-borne diseases such as Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya virus, dengue, and malaria. 

(Photo = KTLA)

Currently, there are three cases of dead birds infected with West Nile in Simi Valley, Ventura, and Thousand Oaks. Even though there aren’t humane cases that were found to be affected by the mosquitoes, California Department of Public Health have encouraged citizens to use additional caution while enjoying the outdoors. 

As a protective method, California Department of Public Health have announced the three “D’s” methods to prevent their residents from the spread of mosquito bites.

First, DEET: apply insect repellent that contains DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and others that would help insects and mosquitoes to be avoided. 

Second, Dawn and Dusk: since the mosquitoes are most active during the morning and the evening, it is important to wear protective clothes and keep the doors and windows shut. 

Third, Drain: Mosquitoes use stagnant water to lay their eggs. Drain all areas where there is standing water, including buckets, old tires, gutters, birdbaths, and pet bowls.

Above all, there are no incidences of malaria, West Nile virus, or St. Louis encephalitis virus have been reported in humans, and with the incoming colder seasons, this disquiet will hopefully abate soon for the residents of California. 

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Gena Lee  (gleeanna0807@gmail.com)