IMPERIAL COUNTY, CA — The Imperial County Public Health Department is reporting a higher presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in several communities throughout Imperial County, particularly in Calexico, Brawley, and Heber. Recent mosquito surveillance conducted by the Department’s Vector Control Program detected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in 36 of the 77 mosquito traps deployed throughout the county. The highest detection rates were reported in Calexico (87%), Brawley (71%), and Heber (67%).

Aedes aegypti is an invasive mosquito species capable of transmitting viruses that cause diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. These mosquitoes are known as all-day biters and are also considered “container breeders”, meaning they prefer to lay their eggs along the inside walls of containers that hold water, such as old tires, flowerpots, buckets, and unused swimming pools. Even small amounts of standing water can provide suitable breeding conditions.

“Our Vector Control Program will continue to monitor mosquito activity and treat affected areas,” said Jeff Lamoure, Deputy Director of Environmental Health. “Residents play an important role in reducing mosquito populations by regularly inspecting their properties and eliminating potential breeding sites. We encourage everyone to take these simple precautions to help control mosquito activity in their communities.”

The Imperial County Public Health Department recommends the following precautions to reduce mosquito breeding and prevent mosquito bites:

• Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property that can support mosquito breeding by: 

  • Draining or disposing of old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys, or any other containers that can collect water.

  • Emptying and changing the water in birdbaths, fountains, wading pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. 

  • Draining or filling temporary pools of standing water with soil. 

  • Keeping swimming pool water properly treated and circulating.

• When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

• Apply EPA-registered insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions.

• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes. 

Residents who notice unusually high mosquito activity around their homes or workplaces are encouraged to contact the Imperial County Public Health Department’s Vector Control Program at (442) 265-1888.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides an online tool to help people choose the insect repellent that may be right for them and their families. The tool is available at:  Find the Repellent that is Right for You | US EPA

For additional information about Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, visit the California Department of Public Health’s website at: Mosquitoes and Mosquito-Borne Diseases.