Truck mounted mosquito control planned.

Posted on July 12th, 2024 at 4:10pm

Coachella Valley, CA: Positive West Nile Virus (WNV) mosquito samples continue to rise in the Eastern Coachella Valley. Year to date, the District has detected 171 WNV positive mosquito samples. As a response to the elevated levels of WNV positive samples, the District has scheduled truck-mounted ultra-low volume (ULV) applications to begin on Monday, July 15th through Wednesday, July 17th, 2024.

Truck-mounted ultra-low volume (ULV) applications are planned between 2:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., weather permitting. The District will use Merus 3.0, an organic product targeting adult mosquitoes. The application area is located within the boundaries of Avenue 64 (north), Avenue 70 (south), Van Buren Street (west), and Polk Street (east).Residents can check the District website for application routes and updated application times.

There are no human cases of WNV currently in the Coachella Valley. However, due to increased risk, the District encourages all valley residents to wear insect repellent while outdoors.

“During mosquito season it is vital that residents take action to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Fernando Gutierrez, Community Liaison for the District. “You should invest in - and wear - insect repellent when enjoying the outdoors.”

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. However, 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).

·         Dump and drain any standing water around your home.

·         Check window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.