June 5, 2025
Contact: Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office: 916.405.2082 | Cell: 916.416.6337
E-mail: lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
DISTRICT LAUNCHES NEW STERILE MALE MOSQUITO PILOT PROGRAM IN RESPONSE TO THE SPREAD OF INVASIVE MOSQUITOES
Elk Grove, CA – The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announced the continued spread of the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito, a species capable of transmitting serious diseases such as dengue, Zika and chikungunya posing a growing health concern. This year, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have already been found in neighborhoods within the city of Sacramento including South Natomas, Land Park, and Tahoe Park. “The ongoing spread of these mosquitoes is very concerning,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “Their ability to thrive in small hidden containers makes them a persistent problem in residential areas,” emphasized Goodman. First identified within District boundaries in 2019, these small, dark and aggressive mosquitoes are known for biting during the day and laying eggs in flowerpots, bird baths, pet dishes, plant saucers and even bottle caps.
Travel-related dengue cases are detected in our region every year, but in 2023, California saw its first three locally acquired cases. That number rose to 18 in 2024 — a troubling trend that highlights the growing public health threat posed by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and the urgent need for more effective, science-based control methods.
While traditional mosquito control methods have been effective in managing Aedes aegypti populations, the continued expansion of these invasive mosquitoes in California highlights the need to complement current strategies with innovative tools. In response, the District is launching a Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) pilot program in South Natomas beginning in July. This innovative program involves the weekly release of non-biting male mosquitoes that carry Wolbachia, a naturally occurring bacterium. When these males mate with wild females, the resulting eggs do not hatch, leading to a gradual decline in the mosquito population. “We’re proud to use innovative, science-based tools like the SIT program to help protect our community,” indicated Goodman. “It’s a targeted way to reduce Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and the diseases they can carry.” Sterile insect techniques are also being used by other mosquito control districts across California as part of a statewide effort to address the rising threat of invasive mosquitoes.
The program will run from July to November in a 100-acre area of South Natomas. While residents may notice more mosquito activity during this period, the released mosquitoes will be males and do not bite.
For more information about the SIT Pilot Program in South Natomas or to request a free inspection, visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net or call (800) 429-1022.
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 by 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
