As mosquito season begins in Southern Nevada, Clark County officials are asking residents to help reduce mosquito breeding by reporting green pools and removing standing water on their properties. Mosquitoes can transmit viruses such as West Nile and Zika. Officials note that green pools can quickly become mosquito breeding sites and encourage residents to report them by calling (702) 455-4191 or using the Clark County website.
Last year, there were 436 complaints about green pools. Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick said, "Green pools are ugly and they quickly become breeding grounds for mosquitoes." The Southern Nevada Health District monitors mosquitoes from March to fall and set up over 3,400 traps at 800 sites last year. They found 388 mosquito pools positive for West Nile virus and 21 positive for Saint Louis Encephalitis. Dr. Cassius Lockett said, "We can all help to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses through preventive measures," such as tipping over water containers and using EPA-approved repellents.
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes bite during the day and prefer human blood. They can spread diseases such as Zika and dengue fever. Standing water in small containers can serve as breeding sites. The Health District’s "Fight the Bite" campaign advises residents to clear gutters, fix leaks, and clean pet dishes regularly. It also recommends using insect repellents with DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long sleeves and pants, and ensuring doors and windows have screens without holes. These measures aim to reduce mosquito populations and limit disease transmission in Southern Nevada, according to the Clark County.
