20 October 2026 · The Guardian
Los Angeles Faces Mosquito Crisis
Los Angeles is experiencing a severe mosquito problem, leading to health concerns and discomfort for residents. The situation is worsened by heatwaves and humidity.
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Narration includes the headline and summary.
Adapted from The Guardian, 11 October 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.
Grammar in this story
“Local health officials report a rise in West Nile virus cases, making the situation even more concerning.”
Reporting verb + that-clause. Read the guide
Key vocabulary
surge noun
a sudden increase or rise in something
“There was a surge in interest for the new movie.”
regulate verb
to control or maintain something according to rules or laws
“The government plans to regulate the use of plastic bags.”
outbreak noun
a sudden occurrence of a disease or problem
“The outbreak of the flu affected many people this winter.”
decline verb
to decrease or become less
“The number of mosquitoes may decline with cooler weather.”
control verb
to manage or direct something
“We need to control the mosquito population to prevent disease.”
Quick quiz
01What is the main problem in Los Angeles?
02What does the word 'surge' mean in the text?
03What do people say about this summer?
04What do mosquitoes breed in?
Discussion
What do you think about the rise in West Nile virus cases in Los Angeles? In your answer, use the words 'surge' and 'regulate'.