From the Desert Sun
July 3, 2020
Additional mosquitoes trapped in the Coachella Valley tested positive for West Nile virus, this time in Indian Wells, officials said Thursday.
The mosquitoes were collected from traps near Vintage Drive and Portola Avenue, according to the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District
Indian Wells is the third Coachella Valley city where West Nile virus has been detected this year. In June, mosquitoes positive for the virus were reported in Palm Desert and Cathedral City.
This year, 21 mosquitoes have tested positive for the virus. The Coachella Valley has no reported human cases of West Nile, which is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.
“Impacts of COVID-19 on staff resulted in the District suspending services for two weeks so residents across the valley need to help us and protect themselves against mosquito bites,” said Tammy Gordon, a district spokeswoman. “Avoid spending time outdoors at dawn and dusk. If you have to be outdoors, wear long sleeves and apply bug spray.”