District officials stress the importance of wearing bug spray as more mosquitoes also test positive for St. Louis Encephalitis virus in La Quinta and Thermal.

Posted on: July 15, 2020 - 3:45pm

Both West Nile (WNV) and St. Louis Encephalitis (SLEV) viruses have been detected in mosquitoes in the east valley community of Northshore near the area of Avenue 72 and east of Cleveland Street.

Additional testing results detected SLEV in La Quinta near Avenue 52 and Washington Street in La Quinta. These latest results bring the number of SLEV-positive mosquito samples to 54, WNV-positive mosquito samples to 27 this year. A map of these locations is available at www.cvmosquito.org.

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is increasing mosquito control technicians in the area to look for breeding sites and will post virus notice signs in communities located near the trap location. Staff will also carry out mosquito control treatments as necessary in the surrounding area in an effort to reduce the number of mosquitoes and interrupt further transmission of the virus.

“When you are spending time outdoors wear repellent,” said Tammy Gordon, Public Information Officer for the District. “Dusk and dawn are when mosquitoes are most active so please make wearing repellent a priority for you and your family.”

The best long-term solution to mosquito reduction is removing standing water sources around your home. Community participation is critical to controlling mosquitoes in the Coachella Valley. Please take the necessary steps to protect yourself and our community.

Prevent mosquito bites: 

• Don’t go outside around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear bug spray. EPA registered ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 (as directed on the product label).
• Cover up. Wear long sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when mosquitoes are most active.
• Check window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

Prevent mosquitoes around your home:

• Check lawn drains for water and debris. Clean drains regularly.
• Inspect yards for standing water sources. Drain water that collects under potted plants, birdbaths, tires, and any other water-holding containers.
• Clean and scrub pet dishes and water features weekly.
• Swimming pools, ornamental ponds, and fountains require working pumps and regular maintenance.

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