Summer in the Coachella Valley is a glorious time to enjoy outdoor activities. However, SCSH residents should keep in mind that there is a public health advisory regarding day-biting mosquitos. The Coachella Valley has detected a mosquito species capable of transmitting viruses such as chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika. Currently, there are no reports of local mosquito transmission of these viruses, and the District is working proactively to reduce the risks to residents.
Day Biting Mosquitos:
- The invasive mosquito species Aedes aegypti was first detected in the Coachella Valley in 2016.
- This black and white mosquito bites aggressively during the day and lives in urban areas.
- The mosquito can transmit serious viruses like dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika.
- Please report any suspected invasive mosquitoes to the District at (760) 342-8287 or online by submitting a Service Request.
- Some local mosquito species bite during the day; however, they may not be invasive. Report all daytime mosquito-biting activity so field staff can conduct inspections.
- The current risk to area residents is low due to the small numbers of both invasive Aedes detected in the Valley, and few reported human-related travel cases.
Be Proactive to Protect You and Your Home:
- Invasive Aedes mosquitos lay eggs in small containers just above the water line.
- Clean and scrub any containers that have held water, as eggs can survive for months while dry and hatch when water returns.
- Dump and drain standing water in all containers weekly, including outdoor plants and saucers, bird baths, and buckets, to ensure you don’t have mosquitoes developing in your yard.
- French drains or dry wells can build up debris and plant life, creating a hiding spot for mosquitos to lay eggs. They can also sink over time and hold the water they are supposed to drain away. If you can’t drain away from the water, drill holes in the drain or fill it in with sand/rock. Or use a mosquito dunk (available at hardware stores) to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
- Most mosquito-borne diseases include flu-like symptoms.
- If you experience any symptoms in the days or weeks following a mosquito bite, contact your primary physician.
Travelers Alert:
- Travelers returning from areas where these diseases are transmitted could infect a local mosquito.
- For protection, cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Use insect repellents registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Always use as directed.
- Finding recommended repellent at your destination might be difficult, so pack enough to last the entire trip.
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (boots, pants, socks, tents). You can buy pre-treated items or treat them yourself.
- Stay and sleep in screened-in and air-conditioned rooms whenever possible. Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air-conditioned or screened rooms are unavailable or if sleeping outdoors.
For more information, contact the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District · 43420 Trader Place, Indio, CA 92201 · (760) 342-8287 • www.cvmosquito.org