FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 19, 2019BZZZZ…..FIGHT THE BITE! 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.Contact:  Luz Maria Robles, Public Information OfficerOffice:  916.405.2082 | Cell:  916.416.6337E-mail:  lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.netTo 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.

DRAIN

any standing water that may produce mosquitoes, especially after rain.

DAWN & DUSK

are times to avoid being outside, when mosquitoes are most active.

DRESS

appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors.

DEFEND

yourself against mosquitoes by using insect repellent. Make sure you follow label directions!

DOOR

and window screens should be in good condition to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

DISTRICT

personnel are available to address any mosquito problem by calling 1-800-429-1022.