Neighborhood mosquito control treatments are scheduled in Mecca and east valley.

Posted on: September 15, 2023 - 10:38am

Positive West Nile Virus (WNV) mosquitoes continue to rise in and around Mecca. Year to date, the District has detected 24 WNV, and 103 St. Louis Encephalitis virus samples in the valley.

No human cases of the mosquito-borne illness have been reported in the Coachella Valley; however, in the state, there have been 98 positive cases of West Nile Virus this year.

“These are ideal mosquito conditions,” says Greg Alvarado, Operations Manager for the District. “High temperatures, endemic virus detection, and summer rain events are making the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to spread virus.”

Attempting to decrease mosquito numbers and interrupt the transmission of virus to people, the District will provide mosquito control treatments by truck and by helicopter to the following communities:

Route 1: The application area is within the boundaries of 65th Avenue, Johnson Street, 66th Avenue, and Date Palm Street.

Route 2: The application includes communities along Lincoln Street, between 62nd Avenue and 66th Avenue.

Route 3: The application includes communities along Fillmore Street, between 68th Avenue and 73rd Avenue.

Northshore Aerial: The application area is within the boundaries of 70th Avenue, Grant Street, 74th Avenue, and Buchanan Street.

When: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, September 18-20. Applications are planned between 1:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., weather permitting.

Residents can check the District website for application routes and updated application times.

About West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a serious illness. WNV spread when a female mosquito bites an infected bird. The mosquito then can become a carrier and transmit the virus to people. Although most infected people will have no symptoms, others will develop fever, headaches, and body aches. Hospitalization is required in some cases, and in rare cases, death occurs. People with symptoms should contact their health care provider.

Prevent mosquito bites: 

·      Stay inside at dawn and dusk when these mosquitoes are most active.

·      Wear insect repellent. 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 and long pants 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, ponds, and fountains require working pumps and regular maintenance.

About St. Louis Encephalitis Virus. SLEV spread when a female mosquito bites an infected bird. The mosquito then can become a carrier and transmit the virus to people. Most infected people will have no symptoms. Others will develop fever, headaches, and body aches; hospitalization is required in some cases, and in rare cases, death occurs. People with symptoms should contact their health care provider.