West Nile Virus has been detected in Palm Springs and and local residents should take effective measures to protect themselves Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District (CVMVCD) said in a recent news release.
CVMVCD's Mosquito samples collected in Palm Springs tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the news release issued Friday. The samples were the first this year to test positive for West Nile Virus but "regular detections" of the St. Louis encephalitis virus have been found since early June, according to the news release.
"West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States, detections like this should put us all on alert to wear repellent," CVMVCD Public Information Manager Tammy Gordon said in the news release. "At least thirty percent of an active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus is best. Do not use essential oils as mosquito repellent."
Human cases of mosquito-borne illnesses have been reported in the Valley this year, with one human case reported by the state, according to the news release.
St. Louis encephalitis is transmitted when an female mosquito bites an infected bird, which can make the mosquito a carrier of the virus and thereby spreading it to humans. While many infected individuals remain asymptomatic, some may experience symptoms such as fever, headaches, and body aches. Occasionally, severe cases occur requiring hospitalization, and in rare instances, St. Louis encephalitis can lead to death.
West Nile Virus also can be spread after a female mosquito bites an infected bird. The mosquito can become a carrier and subsequently transmit the virus to humans. The majority of infected people will have no symptoms but others may develop fever, headaches and body aches. Occasionally, people infected with West Nile Virus may require hospitalizations and, in rare cases, West Nile Virus can lead to death.
To prevent mosquito bites, CVMVCD recommended staying inside at dawn and dusk when mosquitos are the most active. Additionally, wearing insect repellent with EPA registered ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535, as directed on the product label). CVMVCD also recommended wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants when mosquitos are most active, as well as checking window and door screens to prevent mosquitos from entering indoor spaces.
CVMVCD also recommended several measures to prevent mosquitoes around your home, such as regularly inspecting and cleaning lawn drains, checking your yard for any standing water sources, and draining any water that accumulates under potted plants, birdbaths, tires, or any other containers that may hold water. Additionally, make sure to clean and scrub pet dishes and water features weekly. Those with swimming pools, ponds or fountains should ensure that pumps are working correctly and receive regular maintenance to minimize mosquito breeding sites.