Mosquito control planned in La Quinta due to West Nile Virus activity

Government
Webp r01rw0mwvu7jls15o4tweedwh2hy
John Peña President | Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District website

The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has announced plans for adult mosquito control applications in La Quinta following increased West Nile Virus (WNV) activity in the area. The District will employ truck-mounted ultra-low volume (ULV) applications to reduce mosquito populations and mitigate virus transmission risks.

Applications are scheduled for June 22-24, from 1 a.m. to 7 a.m., weather permitting. The designated area is bounded by Airport Blvd to the north, Avenue 62 to the south, Madison St. to the west, and Monroe St. to the east. A map of the application area is available on the District's website.

Residents are advised to remain indoors while trucks operate on their streets to maximize the impact of the control measures. Signs will be posted along routes informing residents of ongoing efforts. All products used are registered by the Environmental Protection Agency and applied by trained technicians according to label instructions. Although posing low risks, residents wishing to avoid exposure should stay inside or away from the application area during and for 30 minutes after application.

No human cases of WNV have been reported in Coachella Valley in 2024; however, residents are urged to use insect repellent when outdoors to minimize risk. The District recommends EPA-registered repellents containing at least thirty percent DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535—not essential oils. Additionally, eliminating standing water around homes can help reduce potential breeding sites.

To prevent mosquito bites:

- Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk.

- Use insect repellent with EPA-approved ingredients.

- Ensure window and door screens are intact.

- Regularly clean lawn drains and inspect yards for standing water.

- Drain water from containers like potted plants, bird baths, and tires.

- Maintain swimming pools, ponds, and fountains with working pumps.

West Nile Virus spreads when mosquitoes bite infected birds and subsequently transmit the virus to humans.

For more information about scheduled applications or preventive measures against WNV, visit the District’s website.