April 19, 2019
Contact:
Luz Maria Robles, Public Information OfficerOffice: 916.405.2082 | Cell: 916.416.6337
E-mail: lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
MOSQUITO AND WEST NILE VIRUS AWARENESS WEEK IS APRIL 21-27
ELK GROVE, Calif. April 19, 2019— A very wet winter, late spring rain and warm temperatures make the ideal mosquito breeding conditions that will likely result in a busy mosquito season ahead! This is why the California Legislature declared April 21-27 as Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week. This week kicks off the District’s public information and education campaign to keep residents aware about the health risks associated with mosquitoes. “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. “There’s a lot of stagnant water and as temperatures warm up, conditions will be perfect for mosquitoes to thrive,” added Goodman. The District urges residents need to do their part in preventing mosquitoes around their home. “Warm weather is great for spending time in your yard, drain any water from flowerpots, birth 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.
Mosquitoes continue to pose serious public health risks as they can transmit debilitating diseases such as West Nile virus. Last year, there were 217 confirmed human cases in 41 counties including 10 fatalities. Also of concern are the invasive mosquito species Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus which have been found throughout Central and Southern California and continue to spread throughout the state. These 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: Events for Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week April 21-27
WHEN: Monday, April 22 — Official kick off of the District’s public information and education campaign
Tuesday, April 23—Announcement of the annual Fight the Bite contest winners and awarding of prizes
Thursday, April 25 — Annual Repellent Distribution to local homeless shelters
Saturday, April 28—Educational booths at Winters Youth Day
** For photo opportunities and interviews, please contact Luz Maria Robles at (916) 416-6337.
To report stagnant water sources, request a home inspection or if you are being bothered by mosquitoes, please call 1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
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
