Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes This Memorial Day Weekend

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District reminds the public to take all necessary precautions and protect themselves from mosquitoes this Memorial Day weekend and in the upcoming months.  “Many will be spending time outdoors as this holiday is the unofficial kick-off to the summer season,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “As you celebrate with a backyard barbeque, a camping trip or enjoy outdoor activities, it’s important to protect yourself from mosquitoes by wearing a good mosquito repellent,” added Goodman. The Centers for Disease Control recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or the plant based Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow label directions when applying repellent. Aside from personal protection against mosquito bites, draining all sources of stagnant water around the home is also important. “Remember to check your backyard and dump any water in flower pots, kiddie pools, tires, pet dishes, bird baths and other common containers that can hold water,” added Goodman.
 
Last week the District reported the first evidence of West Nile virus activity for the season as 2 dead birds tested positive in the city of Sacramento. Warm temperatures accelerate the lifecycle of a mosquito, therefore populations of mosquitoes will increase in the upcoming weeks and the risk for West Nile will also intensify,” indicated Goodman. While this is the first evidence of the virus within the District’s service area; other counties throughout the state have already started to register activity.
 
Another ongoing concern is the spread of invasive mosquitoes throughout our District.  Aedes aegypti were detected for the first time within District boundaries in 2019 in Citrus Heights and Aedes albopictus were found in in south Natomas in 2022.  This season, surveillance efforts have once again detected both of these invasive mosquito species at different sites in Sacramento County.  Invasive mosquitoes aggressively bite during the day and pose a significant health threat because they can transmit dangerous viruses including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya.
 
To report any stagnant water, a neglected pool or other mosquito problems, please call 1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net