Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes this Labor Day Weekend

Elk Grove, Ca.— Labor Day may mark the unofficial end of summer, but mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus continue throughout the region. As many residents prepare to enjoy outdoor activities over the long holiday weekend, the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District is reminding the public that mosquito season is not over. “Mosquito samples and dead birds continue to test positive for West Nile virus,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “While we’ve enjoyed some cooler weather recently, temperatures are expected to climb again next week. Mosquitoes are still active and the risk of being bitten and becoming infected with West Nile virus remains,” added Goodman. Residents are encouraged to use an effective insect repellent whenever spending time outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends EPA-registered insect repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or the plant based oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow label directions when applying repellent.

This season, West Nile virus activity has been intense and widespread throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties. “We still have a few weeks before the summer season officially ends, so it’s very important for everyone to do their part and stay protected, especially as we head into the holiday weekend,”  indicated Goodman. 

The warning comes as human cases of West Nile virus continue to be confirmed throughout the region. To date, Sacramento County has reported nine human cases, including one fatality, while Yolo County has confirmed two cases.

While West Nile virus remains the primary mosquito transmitted disease of concern in our region, invasive Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes continue to expand throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties. These aggressive daytime-biting mosquitoes are a public health concern because they are capable of transmitting diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. First detected within District boundaries in 2019, invasive Aedes mosquitoes have since become established in multiple communities and continue to expand into new areas.
 
2026 West Nile virus activity update:
Sacramento County:  108 mosquito samples and 101 dead birds and have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
 
Yolo County: 80 mosquito samples and 20 dead birds and have tested positive for West Nile virus to date