Mosquito control treatments for West Nile virus scheduled for east Coachella Valley

Ema Sasic, Palm Springs Desert Sun
·2 min read

Mosquito samples continue to test positive for West Nile virus in the Coachella Valley, particularly in and around Mecca, according to the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District. As a result, mosquito control treatments will take place in the east valley.

The district will provide mosquito control treatments by truck and by helicopter to the following communities:

  • Route 1: Within the boundaries of 65th Avenue, Johnson Street, 66th Avenue and Date Palm Street

  • Route 2: Communities along Lincoln Street, between 62nd Avenue and 66th Avenue

  • Route 3: Communities along Fillmore Street, between 68th Avenue and 73rd Avenue.

  • Northshore aerial: Within the boundaries of 70th Avenue, Grant Street, 74th Avenue and Buchanan Street.

Treatment are scheduled to take place between 1 and 7 a.m. Sept. 18 through 20, weather permitting.

"These are ideal mosquito conditions," Greg Alvarado, operations manager for the district, said in a statement. "High temperatures, endemic virus detection, and summer rain events are making the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to spread virus."

What is West Nile virus?

West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus spreads when a female mosquito bites an infected bird. The mosquito then can become a carrier and transmit the virus to people.

How common are mosquito-borne illnesses this year?

No human cases of mosquito-borne illness have been reported in the Coachella Valley by the district in 2023, but Riverside County reported two cases, one in the western region of the county and one in the San Gorgonio Pass area, last month. There have been 98 cases reported across the state this year.

What are some signs you might have West Nile virus?

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not feel symptoms, but about one in five develop a fever and other symptoms. About one out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness, according to the CDC.

Click here to read our story about preventing mosquito bites and keeping mosquitos out of your home.

Ema Sasic covers entertainment and health in the Coachella Valley. Reach her at ema.sasic@desertsun.com or on Twitter @ema_sasic.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Mosquito control treatments scheduled for east Coachella Valley