4th Dist. Councilman O'Donnell Agendizes Request For Report On LB West Nile Virus Prevention Activities...And Measures To Avoid Stagnant Water Buildup In Culverts & Open Drains

Request for Report - Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Mosquito-Borne West Nile Virus Prevention Activities

Background

On August 9 Long Beach lost its first victim to the mosquito-borne West Nile Virus. The victim was an elderly woman from East Long Beach, an area including zip codes 90808 and 90815, which had the earliest detection of the Virus.

Residents throughout the city have become increasingly concerned as they witness the effects of the Virus on our crow population. In addition, the 4th district has several open storm drains that have the potential for significant mosquito breeding as well as the accumulation trash and debris. Council District offices and HHS have been overwhelmed with calls from alarmed residents seeking an understanding of their risk for contracting the Virus, and reassurance that the City is addressing the epidemic.

Long Beach’s HHS [Health & Human Services Dept.] has been working to combat the spread of the Virus in those areas within its jurisdiction, and has been coordinating with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District regarding those areas not identified in HHS’s jurisdiction (primarily East Long Beach).

Recommended Action

I respectfully request a report by HHS on the their current activities and long term plan, and coordination with the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District to address the needs of the city, and of those residents in East Long Beach, to combat the spread of the mosquito-borne West Nile Virus.

I further request an updated report to the City Council regarding precautionary measures taken to avoid stagnant water buildup and general overall maintenance of storm drains, culverts and open drainage in the 4th district and throughout the City.