Additional virus detections near the Rancho Mirage Palm Desert border prompt neighborhood mosquito control treatments.

Posted on: September 22, 2023 - 10:10am

Mosquito traps collected from Cathedral City and Indian Wells detected West Nile Virus (WNV) mosquitoes for the first time this year. In Cathedral City, the traps were collected near Date Palm Drive and 33rd Avenue. In Indian Wells, the trap location was near Vintage Drive and Wren Drive. Year to date, the District has detected mosquito-borne virus in 153 samples in the valley.

The state of California reports 153 human cases of West Nile virus this year. Riverside County reports 8 human cases, but none in the Coachella Valley.

“The excessive rain and warm temperatures make this an ideal time for mosquitoes,” says Tammy Gordon, Public Information Manager for the District. “We need you to dump out water around your home but just as important is to remember to wear repellent to protect yourself from being bitten.”

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.

Because of persistent virus detections from mosquito samples the District will also provide neighborhood mosquito control treatments in some communities to decrease mosquito numbers and reduce risk of transmission of virus to people.

Mosquito control treatments by truck are scheduled in the following communities:

Rancho Mirage/Palm Desert

Where: The application area is within the boundaries of MacMillan Way, Portola Avenue, Magnesia Falls Avenue, and Highway 111.

When: September 26-28, from 1am-7am weather permitting.

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.