Nuevo residents are being prepped for a special mosquito control operation following reports of mosquitoes testing positive for the West Nile virus. The Riverside County Vector Control Program, acting to promptly address the infestation, has decided to deploy ground sprayers in an early morning operation aimed at reducing the adult mosquito population. According to the details released by the Riverside County Environmental Health Vector Control, the application of the EPA-approved mosquito control product Zenivex -- detailed as EPA Reg No 2724-807 -- is scheduled for Wednesday, 4:00am to 7:00am, covering three specific localities within the Nuevo area.
To effectively mitigate potential public health risks, the product will be sprayed in target zones including a 5-acre area near Mystic Field, a 172-acre vicinity around West Nuevo, and a 77-acre space near East Nuevo. For those keen to avoid any exposure, albeit the risks are considered very low to none, it is advised to "remain indoors and keep windows closed during and for 15 minutes following ground application." This cautionary guideline was explicitly outlined in a public statement by Riverside County officials.
Moreover, signage will be erected along the treatment routes as of Monday to inform the residents about the scheduled mosquito control efforts. While the immediate response is to directly hit the airborne nuisance, Vector Control staff are not taking any chances; they're out in the field intensifying mosquito surveillance, pinpointing breeding sites and engaging in larval control. The agency has also issued reminders about personal and community-level preventative measures, including using EPA-registered insect repellents and wearing protective clothing during peak mosquito activity hours at dusk and dawn.
Homeowners are being urged to join in the battle against the mosquitoes by eradicating potential breeding grounds: standing water around their properties. This includes common collectors like flowerpots, pet dishes, and clogged rain gutters. Residents are encouraged to "eliminate all sources of standing water on your property," a direct appeal made by the County in its public health notice. Recommendations continue with advice to repair leaky faucets and maintain window and door screens to keep these pests at bay.
For those brimming with queries or in need of further information on mosquito prevention, the Vector Control office is ready to field your calls at (951) 766-9454. Residents can also educate themselves on the subject by visiting the Riverside County Environmental Health Vector Control Mosquito Surveillance and Treatment webpage.
