Skip to content | Skip to navigation

Albuquerque - Official City Website

West Nile Virus Control

Integrated control strategies target both the aquatic immature (larva and pupa) and adult stages of the mosquito. Larval control is the most effective since the larvae are concentrated, immobile, and accessible in the water. Larval control consists of using oil, which is sprayed on the water surface. The oil prevents the larvae and pupae from breathing and succumb to suffocation. The oil is very effective and environmentally friendly and can be used with the mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis. Control of potentially infected adult mosquitoes is accomplished by using a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide at the lowest effective dosage. This insecticide is of low toxicity to humans in the concentration necessary to kill mosquitoes. Adult spraying is done in late evening to early morning hours because there is little wind, mosquitoes are more active, and people are usually indoors.

Equine protective measures include:

  • keeping horses stabled during dawn and dusk
  • keep screens in stable windows
  • empty water from buckets, tarps or tires
  • clean water troughs once a week

By using integrated mosquito management strategies not only is the Vector-Borne & Zoonotic Disease Division program preventing and protecting the community from exposure to WNV but it is also promoting a safer environment.

For more information about other aspects of the City's Vector-Borne & Zoonotic Disease Division program, please call 505-452-5300

Translate this page: