Big rain events in August leave behind mosquito problems across Coachella Valley cities.

Posted on: September 11, 2023 - 5:51pm

Samples of mosquitoes from routine collection sites tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in two Coachella Valley cities for the first time this year. This is the 20th sample from the valley to test positive for virus in 2023.

In Palm Desert, the detection came from a trap near Monterey and Magnesia Falls. In Rancho Mirage, two mosquito traps detected the virus. Locations of these traps are near (1) Gerald Ford and Inverness, and (2) Bob Hope and Palm Crest.

“We have been out in full force every day,” says District General Manager Jeremy Wittie. “But with how much water we saw from Hilary and the summer storm following, it’s not surprising to see more mosquitoes and more virus detections.”

Water left by summer storms is ideal for mosquito development. Stagnant water provides breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes. The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District remind residents and visitors that mosquitoes only need a tablespoon of water to lay eggs in that could potentially breed hundreds of mosquitoes.

“There have been 98 human cases of West Nile virus confirmed in California so far this year,” reports Tammy Gordon, Public Information Manager for the District. “None of those human cases have come from Coachella Valley and we want to keep it that way.”

About West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a serious illness. WNV spread when a female mosquito bites an infected bird. The mosquito then can become a carrier and transmit the virus to people. Although 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: 

·      Stay inside at 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, birdbaths, 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.

About St. Louis Encephalitis Virus. SLEV spread 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.