LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District’s Mosquito Disease Surveillance Program has identified the first West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes of the season in the 89074 zip code, home to Henderson’s Green Valley development. This finding serves as a reminder for residents to remain vigilant in preventing mosquito-borne diseases.

Since May, the health district’s surveillance program has been actively testing mosquitoes, examining over 7,000 specimens collected from 1,100 traps strategically placed near parks, wetland areas, wash channels, and other potential breeding grounds across the valley. These efforts aim to monitor the prevalence and spread of West Nile virus (WNV) in the region.

Although there has been minimal WNV activity in the past three years, the virus experienced an “unprecedented activity” surge in 2019, resulting in 43 human cases and one death in Clark County. Fortunately, no human cases have been reported thus far in the county for this year.

Dr. Fermin Leguen, the health officer for the district, emphasized the importance of Southern Nevada residents being proactive in identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sources within their surroundings. This reminder coincides with Mosquito Control Awareness Week, which begins this Sunday.

“The positive mosquito results illustrate that West Nile Virus is active in Southern Nevada, and that residents need to be vigilant about eliminating mosquito breeding sources while also protecting themselves from mosquito bites,” stated Dr. Leguen in a recent news release.

The health district’s Fight the Bite campaign urges individuals to take action by removing standing water where mosquito larvae can thrive and reporting any mosquito activity to the surveillance program at 702-759-1633. Furthermore, the public is encouraged to visit southernnevadahealthdistrict.org for additional information and to report any green swimming pools in their vicinity.

As summer approaches and mosquito activity increases, staying informed and actively participating in mosquito control efforts will help safeguard the community from potential health risks associated with West Nile virus.

Credits: Review Journal

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