This is the first positive mosquito sample in North Shore this year.

Posted May 22, 2024 at 11:30am

Coachella Valley, CA: Mosquitoes from a routine collection site tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) in North Shore near Vander Veer Rd and Avenue 73. This is the first WNV positive sample in North Shore and the sixth in the Coachella Valley in 2024.

No human cases of WNV have been reported in the Coachella Valley or the state this year. There is no human vaccine for West Nile Virus. Residents should be proactive against mosquito bites by wearing EPA-registered insect repellent containing at least thirty percent of an active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535, not essential oils.

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District will continue enhanced mosquito surveillance and control treatments in the area to reduce the number of mosquitoes and interrupt further transmission of the virus.

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. 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 that collects under potted plants, bird baths, 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.