Vector control workers are planning to conduct anti-mosquito spray applications in the eastern Coachella Valley through the end of this week following abatement efforts in three separate areas of the valley last week.
The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District planned to begin “ultra-low volume applications” of pesticide spray by air Wednesday night in an area north of the Salton Sea. The Vector Control District was also planning to spray most of the community of Mecca and some nearby farms beginning Thursday.
Applications were conducted in Thermal, Coachella and Palm Springs last week in the face of an above-average mosquito population — and elevated detections of West Nile virus this year.
“In just three weeks, the District detected 12 West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples in the east valley, including Mecca, North Shore, and Thermal,” the Vector Control District said. “So far in 2019, 37 mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus. At this time last year, no virus activity had been detected.”
There have been no reported human cases of West Nile virus in the Coachella Valley this year, officials said.
The applications north of the Salton Sea that began Wednesday were to be continued between 8 p.m. and midnight — though they could last until 8 a.m. on Thursday and Friday in an area within 70th Avenue, Garfield Street, Johnson Street and the Salton Sea shoreline.
Officials planned to conduct the spray applications in Mecca between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, although those applications could take place anytime between 8 p.m. the day prior and 8 a.m. The area to be sprayed is within 62nd Avenue, Johnson Street, 66th Avenue and Lincoln Street, excluding some organic farms.
Signs will be posted along the route informing residents of the control efforts, the Vector Control District said.
Officials said although mosquito control pesticides pose low risks, the district recommends anyone who wants to avoid exposure to the pesticide spray applications stay inside or away from the area being sprayed during and for 30 minutes following the application.
The Vector Control District said anyone seeking additional information during the applications can call 760-541-2057, or 760-342-8287 during regular office hours between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.