West Nile Virus detected in New Orleans mosquitoes, city expands control measures

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The city of New Orleans has detected West Nile virus in mosquito populations across multiple neighborhoods, prompting an increase in spraying and public health outreach as mosquito season hits its peak.

No human cases have been reported so far, but officials say the presence of the virus in local mosquito traps is a clear warning sign.

“We are collecting mosquitoes every Monday and Tuesday,” said Claudia Riegel, Director of the City’s Mosquito, Termite, and Rodent Control Board. “We’re monitoring which species are present and whether they’re carrying any viruses that could impact our residents or even their pets.”

In response, mosquito control crews are actively treating neighborhoods by both truck and helicopter, using a combination of larvicide and adulticide to disrupt breeding and reduce adult mosquito populations. The city currently maintains 89 trap locations, where mosquito samples are tested weekly for West Nile, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and St. Louis Encephalitis.

Officials stress that even small amounts of standing water, inside trash bins, tires, clogged gutters or yard debris can serve as mosquito breeding grounds.

“We want to make sure that when people put debris out, they bag it tightly so no water collects inside,” said Matt Torri with the city’s Department of Sanitation.

Health officials also caution that while most people infected with West Nile won’t experience symptoms, a small percentage can become seriously ill.

“Roughly four out of five people will have no symptoms at all,” said Meredith McInturff with the New Orleans Health Department. “But for the unlucky one in five, symptoms can include fever, fatigue and respiratory issues that last for several days or even weeks.”

The city recommends using EPA and CDC approved mosquito repellents, emptying containers that hold water and keeping yards clear of debris. Residents can report mosquito problems or request tire pickup and additional trash bins by calling 311.

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