West Nile infected mosquitoes found near Palm Desert and Desert Hot Springs

Two new mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District.

The samples were collected this past week, one from a trap just outside Desert Hot Springs near the corner of Bubbling Wells Road and 18th Avenue.

The other positive sample was collected from a trap near Cook Street and Merle Drive in Palm Desert.

This is the first time virus activity has been detected in the Desert Hot Springs area since early August, and the first time virus activity has been detected in Palm Desert since mid-August.

West Nile virus is a common cause of encephalitis in the United States and is transmitted to animals and humans via the bite of an infected mosquito.

The total number of West Nile-positive mosquito samples this year in the Coachella Valley is now at 96, making it the second highest number of positive samples detected in the Valley in the last decade.

“We are definitely seeing a drop in virus activity as we enter the fall season, but infected mosquitoes are still out there,” said Jill Oviatt, Public Information Manager.

“As temperatures cool, people will spend more time outdoors and potentially be exposed to infected mosquitoes,” Oviatt said. “We urge people to stay vigilant. Wear insect repellent, cover up, and avoid getting bit,” Oviatt added.

District staff will post notification signs in affected communities, set additional traps and increase surveillance to identify sources.

Residents are encouraged to eliminate any sources of standing water in their yards or irrigation runoff into street drains.

Standing water sources can also be reported to the district.

You can visit the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District online at http://www.cvmvcd.orgto obtain more information and submit service requests.