In response to the detection of West Nile virus-positive mosquitoes, the City of Des Moines will begin community-wide adult mosquito control treatments on August 25, 2022. The treatments will be conducted by Clarke, the city's mosquito management provider, with the goal of reducing mosquito populations that pose health risks to residents. Deputy Director of Neighborhood Services, SuAnn Donovan, affirmed the city’s commitment to public health through effective and safe mosquito control measures. Residents are also encouraged to take personal precautions, such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing, to minimize the risk of mosquito bites. Nola Aigner Davis, Public Health Communications Officer for the Polk County Health Department, noted that this time of year often sees an uptick in West Nile virus-positive mosquito tests.

To prevent mosquito breeding, residents should regularly check and eliminate standing water around their homes. The city plans to continue monitoring mosquito populations and West Nile virus activity throughout the fall. For additional information on West Nile virus and prevention methods, residents can visit the CDC's official website.