As if foreclosure didn’t cause enough problems, the Associated Press is reporting that the increase in foreclosure activity throughout California is exacerbating West Nile virus dangers.
That’s because abandoned or vacant homes with untreated swimming pools are becoming breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which are responsible for spreading the virus to birds, horses and humans.
In fact, according to the report The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District got 288 service requests last month — nearly double the activity at the same time in 2007.
With so many homes in foreclosure throughout the “Golden State” it is becoming more and more difficult for lenders and local governments to manage and address the needs of all foreclosure properties.
It’s a nightmare scenario that goes to show the far-reaching effects of foreclosure.
West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes. Its symptoms include fever, headache, chills, weakness and drowsiness. However, severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications such as meningitis and encephalitis.
Its so unfortunate that the public is unaware that they can stay in their homes, even after they are served. We need to educate the public so we can assist in this foreclosure dilemma and slow down the devaluation of neighborhoods due to abandoned homes.
I agreed. The biggest trouble in foreclosure is that people facing it don’t know their rights and easier ways to get rid of it or at least to solve it in a way that can’t harm themselves.
We should all put our hands together to educate people to help them get out of this.