Jul 10, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2019
July 10, 2019
![Sac Yolo MVC Sac Yolo MVC](http://ucanr.edu/blogs/CCUrbanPests/blogfiles/61608.png)
WEST NILE VIRUS
Elk Grove, Ca.—The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District confirmed today that the first mosquito sample of the season has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The mosquito sample was collected near the Florin area of south Sacrament County. “As we expected, after finding the first positive bird earlier in the week, now we are finding virus in the mosquito populations, “ said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “With the very warm weather expected over the next few days, we expect WNV activity to quickly ramp up,” he added. The District encourages residents to take these findings seriously and do everything they can to protect themselves. Last year in California there were 211 confirmed human cases of the disease, including 11 fatalities.
The detection of this recent WNV activity is evidence that the disease is present and the public should take proper precautions to stay protected. “As more people enjoy outdoor activities during the warm summer evenings, it's important to remember that the best protection against mosquito bites is an effective insect repellent” said Goodman. Residents are also encouraged to report dead birds, neglected pools and other mosquito problems.
As a response to the finding of WNV, the District will increase its mosquito trapping and monitoring in the area to find sources where mosquitoes may be breeding. Targeted ground spraying may also be conducted to rapidly decrease the numbers of adult mosquitoes.
For current information about District activities, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to mailing lists to receive email notifications for upcoming mosquito treatments by zip code. To sign up, go to Spray Notifications on the website.
2019 West Nile virus activity update:
Sacramento County: 1 mosquito sample and 1 dead bird have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: No activity has been detected to date.
Practice the District D's of Mosquito Prevention:
DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors.
DRESS appropriately be wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.
DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent. Make sure to follow label directions!
DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.
DISTRICT personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call them at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
By Karey Windbiel-Rojas
Author - Associate Director for Urban & Community IPM/ Area Urban IPM Advisor
Author - Associate Director for Urban & Community IPM/ Area Urban IPM Advisor