FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 11th, 2020
Contact: Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office: 916.405.2082 | Cell: 916.416.6337
E-mail: lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
WARM TEMPERATURES BRING MOSQUITOES
Elk Grove, Ca. — Feels like spring is in the air and with the warming temperatures, mosquitoes are out and looking to bite. “This is a typical trend that we see every year in February when we get a few days of sunny and warm weather,” said Gary Goodman, Manager of the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District. “These mosquitoes are ones that had been hibernating during the past few months. The warm temperatures have brought them out of resting and they are aggressively biting,” indicated Goodman. Fortunately these mosquitoes are not the same species that can pose a threat for West Nile virus and are considered a seasonal nuisance, common during this time of the year. District crews have been inspecting areas where these mosquitoes can breed and making appropriate treatments.
Over the past few days the number of service requests received by the District has increased significantly. “Since people are spending more time outside, they are noticing mosquitoes more,” added Goodman. While the official start of spring is still more than a month away, a warming trend is expected for this week and it’s important for residents to inspect their property and drain any stagnant water they may find in flowerpots, buckets, bird baths or other small containers. Reducing any mosquito breeding sites now will be a big help later in the season. The best protection against mosquito bites is wearing long sleeves and pants when spending time outside. An effective mosquito repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus is also a good protective measure.
To report mosquito breeding sources, request a home inspection or if you are being bothered by mosquitoes, please call 1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
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
