Vector Control
Report a possible mosquito breeding habitat or annoyance problem
To report a possible mosquito breeding habitat or annoyance problem, please call Environmental Health at (442) 265-1888.
Report a honey bee swarm or nest
To report a honey bee swarm or nest, contact the BEE HOTLINE: (760) 336-2252
Vector Control
The Imperial County Vector Control Program protects public health by monitoring, preventing, and reducing mosquito-borne diseases. We also respond to bee-related concerns, investigate honey bee swarm reports, and provide guidance on insects and rodents that pose health risks.
Our key activities include:
- Trapping mosquitoes to identify species and detect disease (West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis, Western Equine Encephalitis, and more).
- Locating and assessing new mosquito-breeding sites.
- Inspecting and treating known breeding areas.
- Removing honey bee swarms found in unsafe areas (note: established hives must be handled by licensed pest control professionals).
- Offering community outreach on preventing mosquito breeding, avoiding mosquito-borne illness, reducing rodent issues, and other vector-related health topics.
Vector-Borne Diseases from Mosquitos
The vast majority of vector-borne diseases are found in tropical areas of the world. Malaria, Dengue Fever, Yellow Fever, Onchocerciasis, and Filariasis cause human suffering and death throughout the world.
Although Imperial County has a more temperate climate, vector-borne diseases exist that can cause serious health problems. These diseases include Plague, Encephalitis, Lyme Disease, Hantavirus, and West Nile Virus. Monitoring and reacting to the presence of these diseases is vital to the protection of the health and well-being of our community.
The Imperial County Vector Control Program has been active in surveillance and control activities since 1992. The Department provides service to the unincorporated areas of Imperial County and the cities of El Centro, Brawley, Calexico, Holtville, Imperial, Calipatria, and Westmorland. Service calls are made concerning bees and mosquitoes. Informational pamphlets are also available for other types of pests.