City of New Orleans Sprays for Mosquitoes Amid Rising WNV Activity

NEW ORLEANS, La. -  In response to an increase in mosquito samples testing positive for West Nile virus (WNV), the City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board (NOMTRCB) conducted targeted mosquito spraying this week in several neighborhoods.

Officials say the spray treatments are a proactive effort to stop the cycle of West Nile virus, which is commonly spread between birds and mosquitoes and can infect humans through mosquito bites. So far, no human cases have been reported in Orleans Parish this year, but surveillance data indicates an elevated number of WNV-positive mosquito samples across the city.

“This level of West Nile activity in mosquito populations is higher than we typically see at this time of year,” said a NOMTRCB spokesperson. “We’re taking action now to prevent human transmission by targeting the primary vector, Culex quinquefasciatus.”

Experts warn that the recent stretch of heavy rainfall in New Orleans has created prime breeding conditions for mosquitoes, as many species lay eggs in standing water, containers, or moist soil. Mosquitoes can develop from eggs to adults in as little as a week in warm, wet weather.