West Nile Virus Activity Remains High in Yolo County

Elk Grove, Ca.— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District continues to closely monitor areas throughout Yolo County where West Nile virus activity has intensified over the past several weeks. Areas where we have seen ongoing activity include the City of Woodland, Zamora, Dunnigan, and the surrounding agricultural areas. Today alone, 20 mosquito samples collected from multiple locations throughout these communities tested positive for West Nile virus. “We are closely monitoring these areas and responding aggressively to help reduce mosquito populations and protect public health,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “The combination of extensive agricultural mosquito sources, extremely hot weather this week, and peak summer conditions has created an environment where West Nile virus activity can increase rapidly,” added Goodman. Although today’s positive test results were concentrated in Yolo County, additional mosquito samples and two dead birds also tested positive in Sacramento County.

In response to increasing West Nile virus activity, the District has intensified mosquito control efforts over the past several weeks, including ground treatments in neighborhoods and parks, as well as aerial treatments over known agricultural mosquito sources.

We are now entering the time of year when human cases of West Nile virus typically begin to increase. Last month, Sacramento County reported its first human case of West Nile virus this season. “We encourage everyone to remain vigilant by eliminating standing water around their homes and protecting themselves from mosquito bites by using an EPA-registered insect repellent whenever they spend time outdoors,” added Goodman.
 
For current information about any treatments planned, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code.  To sign up go to Spray Notifications on the website.
 
2026 West Nile virus activity update:
 
Sacramento County: 83 dead birds and 85 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
 
Yolo County: 12 dead bird and 55 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus