The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is taking proactive steps to address heightened West Nile Virus (WNV) activity in the region.
"The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is scheduling additional truck-mounted mosquito control treatments," said the district.
Due to the increase in West Nile Virus activity, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has scheduled additional truck-mounted mosquito control treatments in the cities of Cathedral City and Palm Springs. These treatments are specifically targeted at communities with a higher risk of mosquito-borne virus transmission, with the aim of reducing mosquito populations and the associated risk to residents.
Following the detection of WNV in 158 mosquito samples across the valley this year, the district has scheduled additional truck-mounted mosquito control treatments in the cities of Cathedral City and Palm Springs. Riverside County has reported 8 human cases of WNV this year, with none reported in the Coachella Valley.
In addition to the mosquito control treatments conducted last week, further treatments are scheduled within the boundaries of Ramon Road, Da Vall Drive, Palm Canyon Drive, and Highway 111. These treatments will take place from September 27 to September 29, between 1 a.m. and 7 a.m., weather permitting.
Additionally, on September 27, the Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control reported mosquito samples from two routine collection sites in the city of Coachella had tested positive for WNV. The samples were taken from a site near Frederick Street and Avenue 51, as well as Avenue 49 and Van Buren Street.
West Nile Virus spreads when female mosquitoes bite infected birds and subsequently become carriers of the virus, which they can transmit to humans. While many infected individuals show no symptoms, some may develop fever, headaches, and body aches. Severe cases may require hospitalization, and in rare instances, the virus can be fatal. Individuals experiencing symptoms are advised to contact their healthcare provider promptly.