Southern Nevada Mosquito Surveillance Starts Early

Warmer temps and recent rains prompt earlier mosquito monitoring for West Nile virus

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Southern Nevada Health District is beginning its annual mosquito surveillance activities earlier than normal this year due to warmer weather and recent rainfall in the Las Vegas valley. The district is setting up mosquito traps in parks, washes, wetlands, and neighborhoods to test for arboviruses like West Nile virus, with the goal of detecting any virus activity early and responding quickly.

Why it matters

Early mosquito monitoring is crucial to detect and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus, which can pose a public health risk. Southern Nevada has experienced favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, making it important for health officials to get an early start on surveillance.

The details

The Southern Nevada Health District is placing mosquito traps in various locations around the Las Vegas valley, including parks, wash channels, wetlands, and residential neighborhoods. The collected mosquitoes will then be tested at the district's laboratory for arboviruses such as West Nile virus. No human cases of West Nile were reported in Clark County last year, but health officials are urging residents to take precautions like eliminating standing water and using insect repellent.

  • The Southern Nevada Health District is beginning its routine mosquito surveillance activities earlier than normal this year.
  • Mosquito traps are being set up around the Las Vegas valley in the current period.

The players

Southern Nevada Health District

The public health agency responsible for mosquito surveillance and monitoring for vector-borne illnesses in Clark County, Nevada.

Dr. Cassius Lockett

The district health officer for the Southern Nevada Health District.

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What they’re saying

“Starting mosquito surveillance one month early gives us a critical head start. With warmer temperatures and the potential for standing water from recent rains, mosquitoes can begin breeding sooner than usual. Taking action now allows us to detect virus activity early and respond quickly.”

— Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer, Southern Nevada Health District (news3lv.com)

What’s next

The Southern Nevada Health District will continue its mosquito surveillance activities throughout the spring and summer, monitoring for any signs of West Nile virus or other mosquito-borne illnesses in the region.

The takeaway

Early mosquito monitoring is a proactive public health measure that allows officials to get ahead of potential mosquito-borne disease outbreaks. By starting surveillance efforts earlier than usual, the Southern Nevada Health District is taking steps to protect the community and respond quickly to any emerging threats.