Mosquitoes collected in two Coachella Valley cities tested positive for West Nile virus, prompting increased efforts to reduce transmission, officials said Thursday.
Two samples came from mosquito traps in Mecca, one near the intersection of Buchanan Street and Avenue 68 and the other at the intersection of Lincoln Street and Avenue 62. The disease was also found at a trap near the intersection of Madison Avenue and Avenue 38 in Indio.
No human cases of the virus have been reported in the region.
At this time in 2023, there had been no virus cases found. Last year, 21 human WNV infections were documented in Riverside County, none of which resulted in fatalities.
Statewide last year, there were 461 confirmed infections, resulting in 19 fatalities, according to the California Department of Public Health.
Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District staff will deploy signage near the detection sites and promised to “increase mosquito surveillance and control treatments in the area to reduce the number of mosquitoes and interrupt further transmission of the virus,” according to an agency statement.
The virus generally spreads when a female mosquito bites an infected bird, becoming a carrier. Most infected people bear no symptoms, but some may develop fever, headaches, and body aches. In rare cases, hospitalizations or death can occur.
Mosquito season in Southern California generally spans May to October. To reduce exposure to mosquitoes with WNV, the agency provided residents with prevention advice such as:
— spend as little time as possible outdoors at dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are generally on the move;
— wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts during outdoor activity in mosquito-prone areas;
— use insect repellent;
— ensure door and window screens are fitted properly to keep bugs out; and
— get rid of standing water, aside from pools properly treated with chemicals.
Anyone with reports or concerns should contact the Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District at 760-342-8287.