Due to the amount of rainfall the valley has had so far in 2005, an earlier than expected mosquito season has resulted.  

Mosquitoes can carry the West Nile Virus (WNV).  In 2004, Clark County experienced several human and equine cases of the WNV disease.

Known mosquito breeding areas in Clark County are routinely surveyed and treated during the mosquito season by staff at Clark County Public Works Vector Control. Mosquito fish are placed in many mosquito-breeding locations each year.   

Residents' cooperation is needed to detect and eliminate mosquito-breeding sources. Clark County Public Works Vector Control is asking the public to please report any stagnant water in swimming pools, ponds, undrained fountains or animal watering troughs by calling (702) 455-7543 or by sending an e-mail to rhicks@co.clark.nv.us 

Reports from the public will assist the county in controlling mosquitoes and their breeding areas so that potential sources of the WNV can be eliminated before becoming a health problem.  Please remember that WNV is transmitted by a mosquito bite, so the fewer mosquitoes, the less likely WNV will spread in our area.  For more information, please refer to the Clark County Public Works web pages at www.accessclarkcounty.com/vector

The public is also invited to view a 30-minute special report about the virus on Clark County Television (CCTV) cable Channel 4. The report, jointly produced by Clark County and the Clark County Health District, examines the effect and scope of the virus in the Las Vegas valley, the illness and its symptoms, measures underway to control the virus and the best ways to avoid infection. To view the Channel 4 program schedule, which lists specific airdates for the WNV special, click here.