The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (CVMVCD) has confirmed the detection of a West Nile Virus (WNV) positive mosquito sample in North Shore, Coachella Valley. This marks the first instance of a positive WNV sample being collected in 2025 from this region. The sample was gathered near Vanderveer and Avenue 73.
West Nile Virus is common in the Coachella Valley, spread primarily by native Culex mosquitoes, which are particularly active during summer at dawn and dusk. Currently, there have been no reported human cases of WNV in California this year. For more information on WNV, individuals can visit Westnile.ca.gov.
Jeremy Wittie, General Manager for the District, advised residents to take preventive measures: “To help prevent WNV transmission in the Valley, residents are encouraged to eliminate standing water around their homes by dumping and draining potential mosquito breeding sources and by using insect repellent when spending time outdoors.”
In response to the detected virus, CVMVCD is intensifying mosquito surveillance and control treatments in North Shore to reduce mosquito populations and halt further virus transmission.
West Nile Virus spreads through mosquitoes that become carriers after biting infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit the virus to humans. While most people infected with WNV do not show symptoms, some may experience fever, headaches, or body aches. Severe cases might require hospitalization and can be fatal in rare situations. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical advice from healthcare providers.
The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District has been serving public health needs since 1928 with programs aimed at controlling vectors and preventing vector-borne diseases.