Drain after the Rain to Prevent Mosquitoes

DRAIN AFTER THE RAIN TO PREVENT MOSQUITOES
 
Elk Grove, Ca.– The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District reminds the public to “drain after the rain” to prevent mosquitoes! Wet weather followed by warming temperatures creates ideal mosquito breeding conditions. “The rain we got today has left a lot stagnant water and it’s important for everyone to do their part in inspecting their yard,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager.  “It’s especially important because temperatures are expected to increase by the weekend, therefore we urge everyone to dump out water from household containers such as buckets, flowerpots, bird baths and old tires that may breed mosquitoes,” added Goodman.
 
While the official start of Fall is only a week away, mosquito season is not over and West Nile virus continues to be detected throughout the District.  In addition, with the recent finding of the invasive mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti in Citrus Heights, it becomes even more imperative that residents cooperate and examine their yards closely to eliminate all sources of stagnant water. Invasive mosquitoes were initially detected within District boundaries on August 29^th. Since then, field technicians have been conducting door to door inspections looking for breeding sources and conducting appropriate treatments as necessary. Surveillance efforts have been enhanced to assess the scope of the infestation in the area. ”We are working hard to control the spread of these mosquitoes and protect our residents,” said Goodman. Invasive mosquitoes are aggressive day biters and pose a significant health threat because they can transmit dangerous viruses including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya. While there have been no local transmissions detected to date, the identification and control of this invasive mosquito is important to protect public health. Invasive mosquitoes have also recently been detected in neighboring Placer, San Joaquin and Stanislaus Counties.
 
Public cooperation is critical in detecting and controlling the spread of these mosquitoes. Residents experiencing mosquito bites during the day should report them immediately by calling 1-800-429-1022 or requesting service at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net 
 
To report any stagnant water or mosquito breeding problems, please call
1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
 
 
2019 West Nile virus activity update:
 
Sacramento County:  70 mosquito samples, 36 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
 
Yolo County: 101 mosquito samples, 2 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date