West Nile Virus Activity Increases as More Mosquito Samples and Dead Birds Test Positive

WEST NILE VIRUS ACTIVITY INCREASES AS MORE MOSQUITO SAMPLES AND DEAD BIRDS TEST POSITIVE 

 Elk Grove, CA — The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District announced today that further evidence of West Nile virus activity (WNV) has been detected throughout areas of Sacramento and Yolo counties as 13 mosquito samples and 3 dead birds tested positive today, the highest number of positive results reported in a single day this year. The mosquito samples and dead bird were collected from different locations; however, most of the WNV activity for today was in Davis and other rural areas in Yolo County. “Mosquito and West Nile virus season is definitely underway, and it’s important for residents to be vigilant in preventing mosquitoes from breeding in their backyards,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “Mosquito control is a collaborative effort, and we encourage everyone to do their part.”

This week, the District’s laboratory surveillance program detected an increase in virus activity and overall mosquito populations due to the very warm temperatures of recent days. Hot weather accelerates the mosquito lifecycle and can quickly amplify the virus putting residents at a higher risk. “While it has been a relatively mild season for WNV so far, we are in the middle of summer and conditions can change quickly,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “We expect to see continued activity over the next few weeks. Protecting yourself is key—always apply an effective mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors,” he indicated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or the plant-based Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. 

In response to the recent findings, the District has increased its surveillance and will continue with ground fogging around areas where positive mosquitoes and birds have been found. 

For current information about any treatments planned, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code.  To sign up go to Spray Notifications on the website. 

2025 West Nile virus activity update:

Sacramento County: 17 dead birds and 29 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date. 

Yolo County: 16 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus