FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2026

Contact:  Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office:  916.405.2082 | Cell:  916.416.6337
E-mail:  lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
 

FREE MOSQUITO REPELLENT WIPES AVAILABLE FOR
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Personal Protection is Key in Preventing Mosquitoes Bites and West Nile Virus
 
Elk Grove, Calif.—The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District is providing free mosquito repellent towelettes, while supplies last, to neighborhoods hosting outdoor events in celebration of National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4. National Night Out promotes neighborhood safety and community engagement, and many events take place outdoors during the evening when mosquitoes are most active. “With West Nile virus activity increasing throughout our region, protecting yourself from mosquito bites is more important than ever,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “National Night Out is a wonderful opportunity for neighbors to come together and we encourage everyone to use insect repellent so they can enjoy the evening while reducing their risk of mosquito bites and becoming sick,” added Goodman.

West Nile virus activity is now widespread throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties. Today the District confirmed 10 mosquito samples and four dead birds tested positive. With high temperatures expected over the next week, mosquito populations will continue to increase along with the risk of West Nile virus transmission. The District is urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites whenever they spend time outdoors. “Extremely hot weather creates the ideal conditions for mosquitoes to thrive,” emphasized Goodman. “Now is the time to make insect repellent part of your daily routine whenever you’re spending time outdoors.”

For anyone interested in getting the free repellent for National Night Out please email:  info@FIGHTtheBITE.net to schedule a pick up time at the Elk Grove and Woodland offices during normal business hours Monday-Friday, 9:00a.m. to 3:00p.m.
 
2026 West Nile virus activity update:
 
Sacramento County: 75 dead birds and 67 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
 
Yolo County: 9 dead bird and mosquito 20 samples have tested positive for West Nile virus
 
 

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 us at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net