A mosquito emerges in the darkness of a San Gabriel Valley backyard. She is about to become the “rideshare” for a dangerous germ. Join the journey of West Nile virus as it moves from one infected host to another, carried by its insect transport. Fate is not yet set and is in the hands of nature and those who stand in the germ’s path.

Why are disease outbreaks more common at certain times of the year and not others? How do mosquitoes, birds, people, and the environment all fit together to favor the spread of the germ and what happens below the surface and out of sight?

Journey of the Germ is an animated and interactive video that details how West Nile virus is spread from host to host by a mosquito. The experience illustrates the surprising difference a few degrees in temperature can make in the spread of West Nile virus.

Can something be done to stop the germ in its tracks? Follow the journey of the germ to find out!