West Nile threat to Valley
Mosquito samples tested positive for the West Nile virus in La Quinta. It’s an area of the valley that usually doesn’t have to deal with the virus, especially this time of year.
West Nile is always a serious issue, but this year, it’s appearing in the valley in population centers and at a time when people aren’t usually thinking about mosquitoes. That’s what making this potentially dangerous.
“It’s a bit concerning, especially in a senior population,” said resident Marion Klein-Bieksha.
“I’ve been in places where you think about that, but I didn’t think it was an issue here,” said resident Payson Rosetta.
So far 20 samples from the valley tested positive for West Nile. This time last year there were none.
“We are seeing more virus, we are seeing it more intensified in some cases. We have had situations where mosquito numbers are higher than what we’d like to see,” said Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District Lead Supervisor Rod Chamberlain.
One possible reason is the warm winter, though Chamberlain said it’s hard to know for sure.
The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is actively looking for the virus and trying to slow its progression. So far, it’s working.
“When we first detected the virus, it was in the hundreds of mosquitoes per night. Now there is just a couple, just three or four in there right now, and that is a very good sign,” said Chamberlain.
Crews, however, can’t get to every mosquito.
“A lot of people don’t realize how many mosquitoes can be produced from a very small source of water,” said Chamberlain.
If you happen to be bitten in the middle of the day, more than likely that mosquito won’t be carrying West Nile virus. In the Coachella Valley the species that do carry it are most active at dawn and at dusk. That’s when people should be protecting themselves.
“If you do go outside, long-sleeve shirts, pants, protective insect repellent and those type of things, and make sure your screens on your doors are all in good repair,” said Chamberlain.
If you know of any water sources that are possible breeding grounds, even in your own backyard, contact vector control. They will come out for free.
People can follow the virus’s progress and control’s efforts online. Click here.
