Anti-Mosquito Spraying To Be Conducted In Perris, Riverside

PERRIS (CBSLA.com) — "Ultra-low volume spraying" will be conducted Thursday in Perris and Riverside to target areas where mosquito populations are a growing risk to humans and animals.

In Riverside, spray treatments will be concentrated in the Canyon Crest area, between 3 and 5 a.m., along Alessandro Boulevard and Central Avenue. In Perris, spraying is scheduled between 5:30 and 7 a.m., south of Ethanac Road and just west of Goetz Road, according to environmental health officials.

Anti-mosquito spraying involves the use of chemicals approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, according to the Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District. Pesticides are emitted as a mist dispersed from machines anchored in the backs of pickup trucks.

Officials say residents should stay indoors and keep windows closed until at least 15 minutes after the trucks have left the area.

Anti-mosquito operations have also taken place over the last month in Corona, Nuevo and Moreno Valley.

Two residents of western Riverside County have died from complications related to West Nile virus since August. Countywide so far this year, 28 people have been infected with WNV, which is transmitted by mosquitoes.

In 2014, 14 human WNV cases were recorded by the county Department of Public Health. A map showing West Nile hotspots is available online.

There were 801 cases throughout California last year -- the second-highest figure on record -- resulting in 31 deaths, according to state officials.

Mosquitoes typically become carriers of the virus after feeding on an infected bird and can then spread the potentially lethal strain to animals and humans.

Those at greatest risk include seniors and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Anyone with concerns about WNV, mosquitoes, neglected pools or standing water can contact the Vector Control District at (951) 340-9792, or the Department of Environmental Health at (951) 766-9454.

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