In a recent announcement, the Southern Nevada Health District revealed the detection of West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes in Clark County, marking the first case in the area. The Health District's Mosquito Disease Surveillance Program successfully trapped and identified these virus-positive mosquitoes in the 89031 and 89032 ZIP codes.

As part of their efforts, more than 9,000 mosquitoes have been tested in 2024 alone. Clark County has experienced a significant rise in the population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Unlike typical mosquitoes, these aggressive biters are active during the daytime and tend to prefer feeding on humans rather than birds. With their persistence, a single female Aedes aegypti mosquito can inflict multiple bites.

The presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Clark County has increased substantially over the years. In 2017, they were initially identified in four ZIP codes, which expanded to 12 ZIP codes in 2022, and further extended to a staggering 43 ZIP codes in 2023.

To combat the mounting mosquito population and prevent the spread of diseases, the health district is urging residents to join the "Fight the Bite" campaign. This initiative emphasizes the importance of eliminating stagnant water sources, taking precautionary measures to prevent mosquito bites, and promptly reporting any mosquito activity to the Health District's surveillance program at 702-759-1633.

As the summer months approach, it becomes crucial for residents of Clark County to be vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile virus. By following the guidelines provided by the "Fight the Bite" campaign, individuals can contribute to reducing the impact of mosquitoes in the region and safeguarding their own well-being.

The Southern Nevada Health District reassures the public that they will continue monitoring and implementing measures to mitigate the presence of West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes. With the collective efforts of the community, it is hoped that Clark County can effectively combat the threat of mosquito-borne diseases and ensure a safe environment for all residents.