The District will conduct weekly truck-mounted mosquito control applications in Coachella Valley, CA, to mitigate the risk of local transmission of mosquito-borne viruses. These treatments are scheduled for Saturdays from July 20th, 2024, through September 21st, 2024, between 1:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., contingent on weather conditions.
The focus of these treatments is the invasive mosquito species Aedes aegypti, first identified in Coachella Valley in 2016. This species is known for transmitting viruses such as chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika. Although these viruses are not currently being transmitted locally, the District aims to reduce the population of this mosquito throughout the area.
VectoBac WDG, an organic product targeting mosquito larvae, will be used during the treatments. Residents in affected areas have been notified via postcard and can find additional information on the District’s website.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are small (about ¼ inch), black and white insects that primarily feed on humans and bite aggressively throughout the day. To help control this mosquito population, residents are encouraged to eliminate all standing water sources around their homes. “The public plays a critical role in reducing the abundance and controlling this mosquito,” said Jeremy Wittie, General Manager for the District. “Mosquito control is a community effort!”
Residents can help reduce mosquitoes by dumping and draining standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs—such as potted plant saucers—and using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 as directed on product labels. Additionally, checking window and door screens can prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
