CDC: California has highest number of Mosquito-transmitted disease cases in nation

California has the most mosquito-borne disease cases in the nation, according to new data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The state reported 9,254 cases of mosquito transmitted diseases from 2004 to 2016. In that same time, New York had 7,167 mosquito transmitted diseases, while Texas had 6,648.

“These numbers are startling as they only represent mosquito-transmitted diseases that were reported to health officials said,” David Heft, president of the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California. “Also not reflected in the data are the emerging disease threats the state faces due to the rise of invasive mosquitoes now present in 12 counties in Southern and Central California.”

According to the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California, two invasive mosquito species, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, have been found in about 200 California cities. Both invasive mosquito species can transmit viruses that are dangerous to people. Officials said mosquitos that are native to California can infect people with West Nile virus, which can cause cases of meningitis, encephalitis and even death.

Residents are encouraged to take the following preventative measures to minimize exposure to mosquito bites:

1. Apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients, including DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep mosquitoes from biting. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older.

2. Dress in long sleeves and pants.

3. Install screens on windows and doors and keep them in good repair.

4. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including in flower pots, old tires, and buckets.

5. Repair leaking faucets and broken sprinklers.

6. Report neglected swimming pools and day-biting mosquitoes to your local mosquito and vector control agency.