Los Banos, CA (October 7, 2025) — Residents across Los Banos, Santa Nella, and Merced experienced intensified mosquito control operations in recent weeks as the Merced County Mosquito Abatement District (MCMAD) carried out large-scale ground spraying to reduce mosquito populations and curb the spread of West Nile virus. The district said the efforts were part of a countywide initiative following increased mosquito activity and confirmed virus detections throughout the region.
Between late September and early October, district technicians conducted multiple evening treatments within city limits. Ground spraying took place in Los Banos, Santa Nella, and Merced, along with additional service-request locations throughout the county. The most recent operation, conducted on October 6, focused on Atwater, Merced, and other populated areas. MCMAD confirmed that the last aerial applications took place on September 22 over Atwater and Delhi using a twin-engine aircraft flying between 200 and 300 feet.
Earlier in the season, the district also treated other parts of the county including Gustine, Hilmar, Winton, Livingston, and Dos Palos as part of its routine adult mosquito control schedule. Those applications were performed either by ground units or, in select cases, by aircraft under contract with VDCI Aerial Services. District officials explained that all operations were weather-dependent and could be delayed if surface winds exceeded 10 miles per hour.
The district stated in its public updates that it remains focused on protecting residents through responsible mosquito control efforts. Officials urged the public to check their properties for standing water, maintain pools, and avoid over-irrigation, noting that even small water sources can breed mosquitoes. The district advised that visible results from treatments usually appear within several days and reminded residents to report mosquito activity or neglected pools online at mcmosquito.org or by calling (209) 722-1527.
As mosquito season continues, MCMAD will keep monitoring trap data and weather conditions to determine where future treatments are needed. Residents in Los Banos, Santa Nella, Merced, and surrounding communities are encouraged to stay informed through official updates and take precautions to prevent bites as part of the county’s ongoing effort to protect public health and reduce West Nile virus transmission.
