Spraying For West Nile Virus To Begin In Cathedral City

Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control crews will begin spraying insecticide to prevent the further spread of West Nile virus in Cathedral City, leaders announced on Thursday.

This week, samples resulted in two West Nile-infected mosquitos in the city, prompting the agency to scheduled “ultra low volume ground applications.”

Crews will be using truck mounted sprayers to disperse a chemical which they hope will stop the spread of the disease.

Applications will begin on Friday, Aug. 19, between 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., and they will continue for 5 consecutive days, weather permitting, officials said.

The general area to be treated is in a radius of one-half mile of Plumley Rd and the corner of Converse Rd.

CVMVCD officials said all products used are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for the purpose of controlling mosquitoes and protecting public health.

“The control product that will be used is Aqua-Reslin, which is designed as an aerosol designed to control adult mosquitoes and flies in residential, industrial, urban, recreational, and other areas to protect public health.” according to officials.

Although the district’s mosquito control products pose low risk, some people may prefer to avoid exposure. To minimize exposure you should:

? Remain indoors during application in the immediate area.

? People who suffer from chemical sensitivities or feel spraying may aggravate a preexisting health condition, may consult with their physician and take special measures to avoid exposure.

? Close windows and turn off window-unit air conditioners, when spraying is taking place in the immediate area.

? Keep children’s toys indoors.

? Cover outdoor fish ponds.

If you do not want your property treated, district leaders would like you to call 760-541-6952 or visit their website and fill out a “No Treatment” form.