FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2023
July 12, 2023
WEST NILE VIRUS INTENSIFIES AS MORE MOSQUITO SAMPLES TEST POSITIVE
Elk Grove, Ca— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District received confirmation today that West Nile virus activity (WNV) continues to increase as more mosquito samples tested positive today in many areas throughout Sacramento and Yolo County. “Virus activity continues to be widespread and very intense” said Gary Goodman, District Manager “While this is not uncommon during the summer, we are seeing an increase in the overall abundance of mosquitoes collected in our traps,” added Goodman. Specific areas of concern where much of the WNV activity is currently concentrated include Davis, Woodland and other areas in Yolo County. In the last couple of weeks other areas with increased activity include south Natomas, Tahoe Park and Elder Creek in the city of Sacramento. “We are closely monitoring all these areas and evaluating the best plan of action,” indicated Goodman. “We need to do everything we can to ensure residents are protected,” he added. The District will continue its surveillance in all areas of concern as well as controlling adult mosquitoes with increased ground fogging of parks, neighborhoods and agricultural areas. In addition, the need for urban aerial spraying is being evaluated as a measure or reducing mosquito populations that pose a threat. Additional laboratory results will be available next week that will help determine next steps. To see the most recent WNV activity: https://www.fightthebite.net/media/wnv-activity-map/
In the meantime, cooperation from the public is needed. ”If you’re going to be outside when mosquitoes are active, please don’t take any chances and protect yourself by wearing mosquito repellent, this will go a long way in preventing mosquito bites and WNV,” added Goodman. A bite from an infected mosquito can make you or a family member sick. While WNV causes mild or no symptoms in most people, severe illness and death can occur, especially in older adults and people with underlying medical conditions. You can avoid WNV by preventing mosquito bites.
Throughout the state, West Nile virus activity is also on the rise. In addition, neighboring San Joaquin and Placer counties have seen an increase in dead birds and mosquito samples that have tested positive. Last year in California, there were 216 confirmed human cases including 15 fatalities.
Residents can subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code. To sign up, visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net and go to Spray Notifications. Information for current treatments planned is also available on the District website.
2023 West Nile virus activity
Sacramento County: 69 mosquito samples and 43 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 33 mosquito samples and 2 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date
Elk Grove, Ca— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District received confirmation today that West Nile virus activity (WNV) continues to increase as more mosquito samples tested positive today in many areas throughout Sacramento and Yolo County. “Virus activity continues to be widespread and very intense” said Gary Goodman, District Manager “While this is not uncommon during the summer, we are seeing an increase in the overall abundance of mosquitoes collected in our traps,” added Goodman. Specific areas of concern where much of the WNV activity is currently concentrated include Davis, Woodland and other areas in Yolo County. In the last couple of weeks other areas with increased activity include south Natomas, Tahoe Park and Elder Creek in the city of Sacramento. “We are closely monitoring all these areas and evaluating the best plan of action,” indicated Goodman. “We need to do everything we can to ensure residents are protected,” he added. The District will continue its surveillance in all areas of concern as well as controlling adult mosquitoes with increased ground fogging of parks, neighborhoods and agricultural areas. In addition, the need for urban aerial spraying is being evaluated as a measure or reducing mosquito populations that pose a threat. Additional laboratory results will be available next week that will help determine next steps. To see the most recent WNV activity: https://www.fightthebite.net/media/wnv-activity-map/
In the meantime, cooperation from the public is needed. ”If you’re going to be outside when mosquitoes are active, please don’t take any chances and protect yourself by wearing mosquito repellent, this will go a long way in preventing mosquito bites and WNV,” added Goodman. A bite from an infected mosquito can make you or a family member sick. While WNV causes mild or no symptoms in most people, severe illness and death can occur, especially in older adults and people with underlying medical conditions. You can avoid WNV by preventing mosquito bites.
Throughout the state, West Nile virus activity is also on the rise. In addition, neighboring San Joaquin and Placer counties have seen an increase in dead birds and mosquito samples that have tested positive. Last year in California, there were 216 confirmed human cases including 15 fatalities.
Residents can subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code. To sign up, visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net and go to Spray Notifications. Information for current treatments planned is also available on the District website.
2023 West Nile virus activity
Sacramento County: 69 mosquito samples and 43 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 33 mosquito samples and 2 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
