Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week Is April 19-25

ELK GROVE, Calif. April 17, 2020— Spring is in the air and so are mosquitoes! The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announces Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week, April 19-25. This week kicks off the District’s public information and education campaign to keep residents aware about the health risks associated with mosquitoes.  The current focus on the importance of public health with the Covid-19 pandemic also provides a great reminder that residents need to take all precautionary measures to protect themselves from mosquito transmitted diseases.  “Mosquito Awareness Week is an excellent opportunity for our communities to learn more about mosquitoes and how they can protect themselves from diseases such as West Nile virus,” said District Manager Gary Goodman.  “As temperatures warm up, conditions will be perfect for mosquitoes to thrive,” indicated Goodman. The District encourages residents to take advantage of the shelter in place  orders to inspect their yards thoroughly and ensure they are not breeding mosquitoes. “We are all spending most of our time at home, so remember to drain any water from flowerpots, bird baths, tires, dog dishes and other small sources where water can accumulate and breed mosquitoes. Reducing mosquitoes now, will go a long way later in the season,” emphasized Goodman.
                                                                              
While Covid-19 is not transmitted by mosquitoes, they can certainly transmit a variety of other debilitating diseases, especially West Nile virus which is prevalent in California. Also of concern is that last year, the invasive mosquito Aedes aegypti was detected in different areas of Citrus Heights within Sacramento County. Invasive mosquitoes pose a significant health threat because they are capable of transmitting dangerous viruses including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya.  
 
 
WHO:            The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District
 
WHAT:           Activities for Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week
 
WHEN:         

Monday, April 20 — Official kick off of the District’s public information and education campaign 
                    
Tuesday, April 21—Announcement of the annual Fight the Bite contest winners and awarding of prizes
 
Wednesday, April 22 — Annual Repellent Distribution to organizations that serve the homeless