Riverside County is taking proactive measures to curb the recent rise in West Nile virus incidences through a mosquito control operation in Moreno Valley. The operation, scheduled for the morning of Wednesday, October 25, will use ultra-low volume ground application to decrease the adult mosquito population within 402 acres, as revealed by the Riverside County News Release.
This measure is to diligently, protect residents from the mosquito-borne West Nile virus. The county will employ Aqua-Reslin (EPA Reg No 432-796), an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved product developed to regulate mosquitoes and preserve public health. Riverside County reports that the application will occur between 4:00 am and 7:00 am on October 25, executed by trained, certified technicians according to product labelling.
Despite the product posing a minimal risk, it is recommended for inhabitants and pets alike to stay indoors, windows shut during and 15 minutes post application to limit exposure. Applying the substance at 0.5 ounces per acre ensures safety for humans, animals, and crops.
Furthermore, Vector Control personnel are intensifying mosquito surveillance, identifying breeding sites, and performing larval control as needed. Riverside County offers several tips for residents to combat mosquitoes and protect from West Nile virus:
- Use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 on clothing and exposed skin.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Install and maintain screens on windows and doors.
- Eliminate sources of standing water on your property, such as flowerpots, old tires, buckets, pet dishes, and trash cans.
- Fix leaking faucets and broken sprinklers.
- Clean leaf-clogged rain gutters.
