Mosquitoes In North Shore Test Positive For West Nile Virus
Mosquitoes collected in North Shore have tested positive for West Nile Virus.
The mosquitoes were loitering in a trap near Vander Veer Road and Avenue 73.
This is the sixth batch of mosquitoes to test positive in the Coachella Valley in 2024.
No human cases of WNV have been reported in the Coachella Valley or in the State of California in 2024.
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.
Point to remember:
There is no vaccine against West Nile Virus.
Only female mosquitoes can transmit the virus to humans, after biting a bird infected with the virus. Male mosquitoes don’t transmit West Nile Virus.
Most people infected with the virus 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.
Aedes aegypti mosquito biting a human hand. The pest spreads West Nile Virus.
Photo from Alpha Media USA Portland OR
