FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2022

Contact:  Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office:  916-405-2082 |  Cell:  916-416-6337
E-mail:  lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net

 

DRAIN AFTER THE RAIN TO PREVENT MOSQUITOES
 
Elk Grove, Ca.– The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District reminds the public to “drain after the rain” to prevent mosquitoes! Wet weather followed by warming temperatures creates ideal mosquito breeding conditions. “It’s not common to get rain in September and the recent storm has left a lot stagnant water, we urge everyone to inspect their yards and dump out water from household containers such as buckets, flowerpots, bird baths and old tires that may breed mosquitoes,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager.  “It’s especially important because temperatures are expected to increase by the weekend which means we will likely see more mosquitoes,” added Goodman.
 
While the official start of fall is only a few days away, mosquito season is not over and West Nile virus continues to be detected throughout the District in dead birds and mosquito samples. To date there are also 3 confirmed human cases in Yolo County.   In addition, with the invasive mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti rapidly spreading throughout the area, it becomes even more imperative that residents cooperate and examine their yards closely to eliminate all sources of stagnant water. Invasive mosquitoes were initially detected within District boundaries in 2019 and since then have spread to many areas. The most recent detection of these mosquitoes was along Northgate Blvd and the south Natomas area in the city of Sacramento. Other known areas where invasive mosquitoes have been found include Rosemont, Arden-Arcade, Orangevale and Elk Grove in Sacramento County and the city of Winters in Yolo County. Invasive mosquitoes are aggressive day biters and pose a public health threat because they are capable of transmitting debilitating diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikungunya. “We are currently in the time of year when these mosquitoes are most active and we need your help to control them,” added Goodman.
 
Public cooperation is critical in detecting and controlling the spread of these mosquitoes. Residents experiencing mosquito bites during the day should report them immediately by calling 1-800-429-1022 or requesting service at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net 
 
To report any stagnant water or mosquito breeding problems, please call
1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
 
 
2022 West Nile virus activity update:
 
Sacramento County:  38 mosquito samples, 34 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
 
Yolo County: 64 mosquito samples, 23 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus 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