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

 Elk Grove, Ca. — The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announced today that additional evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) activity has been detected in Sacramento County after six mosquito samples and three dead birds tested positive for the virus. The positive mosquito samples and dead birds were primarily collected in urban areas of Carmichael, although WNV activity has also been detected in the Tahoe Park area. “As temperatures continue to rise, we expect mosquito populations and West Nile virus activity to increase throughout the summer,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “These positive mosquito samples and birds serve as an important reminder that residents should take steps now to reduce mosquito breeding around their homes and protect themselves from mosquito bites,” added Goodman.

In response to the recent findings, the District will continue to monitor all West Nile virus activity through widespread mosquito trapping and testing as well as perform ground treatments in areas where positive mosquitoes have been found to quickly decrease populations and protect public health. 

While West Nile virus remains a priority, another ongoing concern is the spread of invasive mosquitoes. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were first detected in 2019 and have since continued to spread throughout many areas of the District. Unlike typical mosquitoes that are most active at dawn and dusk, invasive mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters that thrive in residential neighborhoods and lay their eggs in small backyard sources. These mosquitoes pose a significant public health concern because they are capable of transmitting debilitating diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. “As invasive mosquitoes continue to spread, traditional control methods alone may not be enough, and additional tools will be necessary to help limit their expansion,” added Goodman.

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.
 
2026 West Nile virus activity update:
 
Sacramento County:  18 dead birds and 13 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date. 
 
Yolo County:  2 dead birds has tested positive for West Nile virus