06/12/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/12/2025 13:58
June 12, 2025 | From City of New Orleans
The City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board (NOMTRCB) reports that mosquitoes collected in traps this week from the East Bank of Orleans Parish tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). WNV cycles between wild birds and mosquitoes and can be transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. NOMTRCB will conduct spray missions tonight, targeting adult populations of mosquitoes. Treatments will be conducted by trucks and helicopter between the hours of 8 p.m. to 12 a.m., weather permitting, in the following areas:
*The following area was rescheduled from Tuesday's (June 10) postponed treatment:
These positive samples indicate that WNV is actively circulating among local mosquitoes and bird populations. No human cases have been reported in Orleans Parish this year. West Nile and other mosquito-borne viruses are more active in the summer and early fall. WNV detection in mosquitoes is common in Orleans Parish at this time of the year, however we are observing an elevated number of positive samples. Our adult traps have collected infected mosquitoes in consecutive weeks, with arbovirus detection expanding to more areas of the city. NOMTRCB sets out adult mosquito traps throughout the parish and tests samples for mosquito-borne diseases weekly. We are conducting adulticide spray treatments to target our primary vector of WNV, Culex quinquefasciatus, and break the disease cycle.
While most human West Nile infections are asymptomatic, common symptoms include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In rare cases, severe illness can occur. Individuals over age 60, those who are immunocompromised, and those with certain pre-existing medical conditions are at greater risk of severe illness.
NOMTRCB is also continuing to treat standing water sites to kill the larval stages of mosquitoes throughout the parish. These treatments prevent mosquitoes from developing to adults and help reduce adult populations. At this time of year, mosquitoes can develop from eggs to adult mosquitoes in as little as one week. After recent heavy rains experienced throughout Orleans Parish this week, we are urging all citizens to take these steps to help protect themselves and their homes from mosquitoes:
Protect Yourself
Protect Your Home
For more information on West Nile virus, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html
Report Mosquito Issues
Please report mosquito-related issues using one of the following methods:
For more tips on safeguarding your home and yourself from pests, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X at @nolamosquito. You can also visit our website for comprehensive resources: https://nola.gov/next/mosquito/home/.