West Nile Virus Cases Rise In San Diego County; Mosquito Spraying Planned

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego County will spray thousands of properties for mosquitoes this week as the region reports its highest number of locally acquired West Nile virus infections in a decade.

As of Sept. 16, 11 human cases of West Nile virus had been reported in the county this year, including three involving Coronado residents, according to county officials. It is the highest number of local infections since 2016.

County Vector Control crews are scheduled to conduct truck-mounted pesticide treatments across about 6,000 properties in Coronado from 1 to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The treatment area generally stretches from Second Street south to Ocean Boulevard and from F Avenue east to Glorietta Boulevard.

The treatments come after county mosquito surveillance found elevated numbers of mosquitoes in Coronado, including some that tested positive for West Nile virus. Additional treatments could be conducted next week depending on conditions.

Crews will use AquaDuet, a pesticide approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. County officials said the mist is nearly invisible, dissipates in less than 30 minutes and does not pose a risk to people or pets as applied.

The treatments are scheduled during early morning hours when fewer people are outdoors. Beekeepers and residents who keep insects or fish outside are encouraged to cover their habitats during spraying.

West Nile virus is primarily spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Some people who become infected may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe illness or death.

County officials urged residents to help prevent mosquito breeding by dumping standing water from buckets, plant saucers, garbage cans, toys, tires and wheelbarrows. Residents can reduce their risk of mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants and using insect repellent.

Increased mosquito activity, neglected swimming pools and other potential mosquito-breeding sites can be reported to the county's Vector Control Program at 858-694-2888.