FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2023
September 1, 2023
Contact: Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office: 916-405-2082 | Cell: 916-416-6337
E-mail: lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS CONTINUES
–Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes this Labor Day Weekend
Elk Grove, Ca.— Labor Day is the last holiday of the summer, however mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus continue for all area residents. The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District reminds the public to protect themselves from mosquitoes especially as many will be enjoying fun outdoor activities for the long holiday weekend. “It has been a record year and many mosquito samples and dead birds are still testing positive for West Nile virus throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “While the weather will be cool over the weekend, temperatures are expected to climb back up next week and this means that we’ll continue to see mosquitoes,” added Goodman. “To prevent mosquito bites, everyone should remember to wear an effective repellent when they are outdoors,” he added. The Centers for Disease Control recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or the plant based Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow label directions when applying repellent.
This season, virus activity has been intense and widespread in both 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 for continued West Nile activity comes at a time when two fatalities were recently announced in Sacramento and Yolo counties. In addition to these deaths, currently there are 10 other human cases in Sacramento County and 8 in Yolo County. Since there won’t be a significant decline in mosquito populations until mid-October, more human cases will likely be reported.
For current information about any treatments planned or to report any mosquito breeding sources, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to mailing lists to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code.
West Nile virus activity map: https://www.fightthebite.net/media/wnv-activity-map
2023 West Nile virus activity update:
Sacramento County: 283 mosquito samples and 153 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 275 mosquito samples and 38 dead birds, have tested positive for West Nile virus to date
–Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes this Labor Day Weekend
Elk Grove, Ca.— Labor Day is the last holiday of the summer, however mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus continue for all area residents. The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District reminds the public to protect themselves from mosquitoes especially as many will be enjoying fun outdoor activities for the long holiday weekend. “It has been a record year and many mosquito samples and dead birds are still testing positive for West Nile virus throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “While the weather will be cool over the weekend, temperatures are expected to climb back up next week and this means that we’ll continue to see mosquitoes,” added Goodman. “To prevent mosquito bites, everyone should remember to wear an effective repellent when they are outdoors,” he added. The Centers for Disease Control recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or the plant based Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow label directions when applying repellent.
This season, virus activity has been intense and widespread in both 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 for continued West Nile activity comes at a time when two fatalities were recently announced in Sacramento and Yolo counties. In addition to these deaths, currently there are 10 other human cases in Sacramento County and 8 in Yolo County. Since there won’t be a significant decline in mosquito populations until mid-October, more human cases will likely be reported.
For current information about any treatments planned or to report any mosquito breeding sources, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to mailing lists to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code.
West Nile virus activity map: https://www.fightthebite.net/media/wnv-activity-map
2023 West Nile virus activity update:
Sacramento County: 283 mosquito samples and 153 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 275 mosquito samples and 38 dead birds, have tested positive for West Nile virus to date
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 them at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
