West Nile Virus Found in Indian Wells Mosquitoes for the First Time in 2020

West Nile Virus (WNV) also detected again in Palm Desert, St. Louis Encephalitis Virus (SLEV) detected again in La Quinta.

Posted on: July 2, 2020 - 4:46pm

Mosquitoes collected from traps in Indian Wells tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) near Vintage Drive and Portola Avenue. This is the first sample in Indian Wells to test positive for WNV this year.

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is increasing mosquito control technicians in the virus positive areas to look for breeding sites and will post virus notice signs in communities located near the trap locations. 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.

“Impacts of COVID-19 on staff resulted in the District suspending services for two weeks so residents across the valley need to help us and protect themselves against mosquito bites.” said Tammy Gordon, Public Information Officer for the District. “Avoid spending time outdoors at dawn and dusk. If you have to be outdoors, wear long sleeves and apply bug spray.”

WNV and SLEV spread from mosquito to people when mosquitoes bite birds infected with the virus then bite a person. Most people will not experience any illness from this virus, others may have flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache and body aches. Few people will need to be hospitalized but in rare cases the disease can be fatal. People over the age of 50 and individuals with lowered immune systems are at greater risk of suffering severe symptoms. Anyone with symptoms should contact their health care provider.

The best line of defense in reducing mosquito numbers is to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed. Remove water-holding containers, drain areas where water can collect such as low lying landscape areas, pet dishes should be wiped out weekly, plant saucers thrown out, and pools need to have working pumps to circulate water.

Please visit for virus activity locations.

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