LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Los Angeles vector control specialists are going door to door looking to stop the mosquito-borne Zika virus in its tracks.

Amid rising temperatures and multiplying mosquito populations, Zika is expected to reach the continental United States within weeks.

Ms Susanne Kluh of the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District says wiping out mosquito breeding sources and educating the public are key.

"We're really hoping that all of residents can help us keep the number of cases that we will experience in the future low," said Ms Kluh.

Zika was first detected in Brazil last year and quickly spread through the Americas.

The virus has been linked to a rare birth defect called microcephaly, marked by unusually small heads.

Now, as Los Angeles and several cities across the country brace themselves for Zika on their shores, experts are continuously monitoring their local mosquitoes for any signs as well as warning residents to stock up on insect repellent and mosquito nets.