Application planned in response to elevated West Nile Virus detections and mosquito abundance

Coachella Valley, CA: The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) will conduct a targeted aerial mosquito control application in the North Shore community in response to current surveillance data showing elevated West Nile Virus (WNV) activity and increased mosquito abundance in the area.

The application is planned for Thursday, August 20th through Sunday, August 23rd, between 7:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m., weather and operational conditions permitting.

Why this treatment is needed: Mosquito surveillance is conducted throughout the Coachella Valley to monitor mosquito populations and detect mosquito-borne viruses. When surveillance data indicate an increased risk of disease transmission, the District may conduct targeted adult mosquito control treatments to quickly reduce the number of mosquitoes capable of transmitting mosquito-borne viruses.

“This treatment is a direct response to what our surveillance data is showing us now,” said Greg Alvarado, Operations Manager for the District. “Our goal is to quickly reduce adult mosquito populations when current conditions indicate an increased risk of West Nile Virus transmission.”

The aerial treatment is separate from the District’s scheduled summer wide-area larvicide (WALS) applications. WALS treatments are conducted by truck and are planned in advance based on historical mosquito data and seasonal patterns. WALS applications target mosquito larvae before they develop into biting adults.

The District will continue monitoring mosquito populations and WNV activity throughout the Coachella Valley and will determine whether additional treatments are necessary based on surveillance results.

There is no human vaccine for West Nile Virus. Most people infected with WNV do not develop symptoms, but some may develop serious illness. Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions against mosquito bites, particularly when mosquito activity is elevated:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors and follow label directions.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are most active.
• Make sure doors and windows screens are free from tears and punctures.
• Eliminate standing water around homes and businesses where mosquitoes can breed.
• Report neglected swimming pools or other potential mosquito sources to the District.

For more information about mosquito control or to report a mosquito problem, contact the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District at 760-342-8287 or visit www.cvmosquito.org.