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West Nile Virus Found in Las Vegas Valley

The West Nile Virus has been detected in a cluster of mosquitoes in east Las Vegas, according to the Southern Nevada Health District.

In 2007, there were three human cases of the virus reported in Clark County. There were a total of 12 cases statewide.

The mosquitoes were found in the 89122 zip code which includes the Desert Wetlands Park.  The health district says it routinely does surveys around the valley looking for mosquitoes carrying the virus.

So far, the virus has been found only in mosquitos -- not humans.

"We've been doing trappings since early April, so we historically know that August and September -- we tend to find possible West Nile mosquitos," said Vivek Raman, who works with vector control at the Southern Nevada Health District.

Raman says people these days are more aware of the virus. "I think so, the pro-active message is something we've been really keying on the last few years because it's a really preventive disease."

He says people are calling them with concerns of pools with standing water. That's where Robert Cole comes in. "We come to a green pool, see if there's mosquito larvae. We throw some of this in. It's called Agnique; it's gonna break down and suffocates any mosquitos growing."

Cole is one of six field inspectors who are working to keep West Nile out of the valley. But he has the help of a team -- a team of fish.

"One of these guys can eat 100 larvae a day, so they'll just thrive in these green ponds and eat the mosquito larvae," said Cole.

The best control for a long term solution are these fish, who swim in green pools across the valley -- for your safety.

There have been no human cases of West Nile found here in Las Vegas.

Tips to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes

• Use a repellent with DEET.
• Wear pants and long-sleeved shirts outdoors.
• Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active, usually at dusk and dawn.

The health district says stagnant water is an optimal breeding source for mosquitoes so they urge residents eliminate areas of standing water and maintain swimming pools. If you have any questions, you can call the Mosquito Control Hotline at 759-1220 or click here for additional information.