Las Vegas is experiencing a surge in mosquito populations, posing a significant public health risk. Factors contributing to this include urban development, climate change, insecticide resistance, and mosquito adaptation. Species like Culex (West Nile virus) and Aedes aegypti (dengue fever) are thriving, despite the desert climate. While 2024 saw a record number of virus-positive mosquitoes, human cases were low. Experts warn of a potential "ticking time bomb" due to increasing tourism and lack of coordinated mosquito control efforts, emphasizing the need for preventative measures and a centralized abatement strategy.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.