Neighborhood mosquito control treatments are scheduled.

Posted on: September 23, 2022 - 12:55pm

Coachella Valley, CA: Positive West Nile Virus (WNV) mosquitoes continue to rise in Mecca. Three more positive samples were collected in Mecca on Thursday, September 22. Of the three positive samples, two mosquito samples were positive for Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE) and one positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The District has detected 100 WNV, 53 SLE, and 16 with both viruses this season.

No human cases of the mosquito-borne illness have been reported in the Coachella Valley; however, in the state, there have been 69 positive cases of West Nile Virus this year.

“Mosquitoes love our warm weather,” said Tammy Gordon, Public Information Manager for the District. “You should invest in - and wear - insect repellent when enjoying the outdoors.”

The District is providing mosquito control treatments by truck starting Monday, September 26, through Wednesday, September 28. Applications are scheduled between 2:00 am to 7:00 am, weather permitting. The treatment boundaries are Lincoln St, 63rd Ave, Miravillaway, Sonrisa Way, and areas between Hammond Rd and 66th ave 

About West Nile Virus. WNV spreads 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. However, 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: 

·      Don’t go outside around 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 collected under potted plants, bird baths, tires, and other water-holding containers.

·      Clean and scrub pet dishes and water features weekly.

·      Swimming pools, ponds, and fountains require working pumps and regular maintenance.