News

May 21, 2025 | From City of New Orleans

The City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board Reports West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquito Pool and Will Conduct Adult Mosquito Abatement Tonight

The City of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite and Rodent Control Board (NOMTRCB) reports that mosquitoes collected 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 truck from 7:45 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., weather permitting, in the following areas: 

  • English Turn and New Aurora bounded by River Rd, the parish line, and Woodland Hwy. 

  • Lakeview and West End bounded by Allen Toussaint Blvd, I-610, Bellaire Dr, and the Orleans Canal. 

  • Lake Shore and Lake Vista bounded by Lakeshore Dr, Allend Toussiant Blvd, Breakwater Dr, and Beauregard Ave. 

  • City Park bounded by Allen Toussaint Blvd, Zachory Taylor Dr, Marconi Dr, and Bayou St John. 

  • City Park, Navarre, and Mid City bounded by I-610, I-10, N Carrollton Ave, and Wisner Blvd. 

  • Filmore bounded by Filmore Ave, I-610, Bayou St John, and Elysian Fields Ave. 

This positive sample indicates that WNV is actively circulating among local mosquitoes and bird populations. West Nile and other mosquito-borne viruses are more active in the summer and early fall. 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.  

We have observed elevated counts of Culex mosquito populations in adult surveillance traps, particularly of Culex quinquefasciatus, our primary vector of West Nile virus. Weekly adult surveillance and testing for mosquito-borne diseases are ongoing throughout the parish. So far this year, two samples for West Nile virus has been detected in mosquito populations in Orleans Parish. 

As we enter peak mosquito season, NOMTRCB also encourages citizens to take protective measures to reduce exposure: 

  • Use repellents containing EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow product instructions when using repellents. 

  • Limit outdoor activities between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. 

  • Use air conditioning or sit in the air stream of a fan when possible. 

  • Ensure window and door screens are in good condition to keep mosquitoes out of your home. 

  • Dump standing water regularly to eliminate larval habitats around your property. 

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/.