Standing water from recent storms poses mosquito risk

With record-breaking rainfall it’s important for valley residents to take a proactive approach in preventing mosquitos and protecting from bites.

The best way to avoid mosquitos is to drain any sources of standing water in backyards.

Vector Control suggests changing water bowls, flower pots, bird baths and any sources of standing water weekly. It’s advised for people to wear repellents and use swatters and wipes to protect your skin.

Mosquito bites can cause West Nile Virus — most times the illness is not severe and symptoms go undetected. Those include fever, headache, body aches, skin rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

In Riverside County there were 14 reported cases in 2018 — down from 33 in 2017.

The last West Nile Fatality in Riverside County wa s in 2015, according to health officials.

Only 1 in 150 people who get West Nile Virus experience more serious complications — according to the CDC.

This County of Riverside map shows where mosquito samples tested positive for West Nile Virus — pointing indicating near Palm Desert, Indian Wells and the Salton Sea.

To request a spraying or service request visit Vector Control here.