NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board (NOMTRCB) reports that mosquitoes collected this week from the East Bank of Orleans Parish have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). WNV cycles between wild birds and mosquitoes and can be transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.
To reduce the risk of transmission, NOMTRCB will conduct adult mosquito abatement spray missions tonight. Treatments will be conducted by helicopter between 7:45 p.m. and 12 a.m., weather permitting, in the following areas:
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Leonidas & East Carrollton: Bounded by Fontainebleau Dr., Apple St., the parish line, the Mississippi River, St. Charles Ave., and Broadway St.
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Marlyville/Fontainebleau, Uptown/Carrollton, Broadmoor, & Freret: Bounded by Fontainebleau Dr., Broadway St, St. Charles Ave, and Napoleon Ave.
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Hoffman Triangle, Central City, Milan, & Faubourg Delassize: Bounded by S. Broad St., Napoleon Ave., St. Charles Ave., and First St.
These positive mosquito samples indicate that WNV is actively circulating among local mosquito and bird populations. While no human cases have been reported in Orleans Parish this year, the detection of WNV in mosquitoes is common during the summer and early fall. However, we are currently observing an elevated number of positive samples. Infected mosquitoes have been detected in consecutive weeks, and arbovirus activity is expanding to more areas of the city.
NOMTRCB deploys adult mosquito traps throughout the parish and tests samples for mosquito-borne diseases weekly. We are conducting adulticide spray treatments to target Culex quinquefasciatus, the primary vector of WNV, in order to break the disease cycle.
Most human WNV infections are asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they may include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe illness. Individuals over age 60, those who are immunocompromised, and people with pre-existing medical conditions are at greater risk for severe outcomes.
NOMTRCB is also continuing to treat standing water sites to kill mosquito larvae throughout the parish. These treatments prevent mosquitoes from developing into adults and help reduce overall populations. At this time of year, mosquitoes can mature from eggs to adults in as little as one week.
We urge all residents to take the following precautions to protect themselves and their homes:
Protect Yourself
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Use insect repellents containing EPA-registered ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow label instructions.
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Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
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Use air conditioning or sit in the airstream of a fan when outdoors.
Protect Your Home
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Eliminate standing water in and around your home by tipping over outdoor containers at least once per week.
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Remove trash and clutter and turn over any items that can collect water, such as buckets, kiddie pools, empty trash cans, toys, or plant trays. Store items upside down when not in use.
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Ensure swimming pools and fountains are functional and circulating.
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Change water weekly in containers that cannot be removed, such as birdbaths and pet bowls. Scrub the sides to remove mosquito eggs.
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Screen rain barrels and use the collected water within one week.
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Make sure window and door screens are intact to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
For more information on West Nile virus, visit the CDC website:
https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html
Report Mosquito Issues
Residents are encouraged to report mosquito-related problems using one of the following methods:
Follow @nolamosquito on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) for updates and prevention tips. For more resources, visit our website:
https://nola.gov/next/mosquito/home/
