Spraying for mosquitoes continues in Palm Desert
Mosquitoes infected with the West Nile Virus have been discovered in Palm Desert. The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District tested two sample of mosquitoes Thursday, one from a trap in Palm Desert near Portola Avenue and Shadow Mountain Drive, and one from a trap near Fairway Drive in Indian Wells; both were positive for the virus.
“When the temperatures are high like they are right now, many of us are out in the early morning and evening to get some fresh air when the temperatures are cooler,” said Jill Oviatt, Public Information Manager at the District. “That’s exactly when these virus-carrying mosquitoes are out and looking for someone to bite, so it is important that people protect themselves by covering up with long sleeves and pants and applying repellent on exposed skin.”
Earlier this week, the first mosquitoes to test positive for the West Nile Virus were detected in Indian Wells.
The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District officials are planning on increasing precautionary measures in the coming weeks to help combat the risk. Spraying operations will also be coming to Indio next week.
The control operations will include a truck-mounted sprayed between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. from Saturday to Monday in the residential areas bordered by Highway 111, Portola Avenue, Rancho Palmeras Drive, and Vintage Drive.
Most who are infected with West Nile virus experience no illness, but officials said some will have flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache and body aches. Rare cases include hospitalization or death. Young children, the elderly and those with lowered immune systems are at greater risk of severe symptoms.
Any local mosquito problems should be reported to CVMVCD at (760) 342-8287.
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