FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 2, 2023

Contact:  Luz Maria Robles, Public Information Officer
Office:  916-405-2082 |  Cell:  916-416-6337
E-mail:  lrobles@FIGHTtheBITE.net
 

WEST NILE VIRUS ACTIVITY REMAINS HIGH IN YOLO COUNTY
Woodland and Davis are areas of concern and aerial spraying continues to be considered
 
Elk Grove, Ca— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District continues to closely monitor areas throughout Yolo County where West Nile virus activity has intensified in the past couple of weeks. Specifically, the cities of Woodland and Davis have seen a significant increase and they are ongoing areas of concern. A total of 19 mosquito samples collected from different parks spread throughout these cities all tested positive for the virus today.  “Woodland and Davis continue to be hot spots that we are closely keeping an eye on,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “They are definitely areas of concern due to the increased mosquito populations coming from agricultural areas surrounding the cities as well as high infection rates in those mosquitoes,” he added. Since August is typically one of the hottest months of the year when WNV activity peaks, the threat for WNV transmission to humans will continue. Over the last few weeks, in response to the increase in activity the District has intensified ground mosquito control treatments around area parks, neighborhoods and conducted aerial treatments over known agricultural sources.  While control efforts have been successful, they may not be sufficient and the District continues to evaluate the need for aerial spraying potentially next week. A decision regarding aerial spraying will be made by the end of the week.  
 
The District continues to work closely with local officials to inform residents about the increased activity and urge the public to protect themselves with a good insect repellent in addition to inspecting their homes for any stagnant water and identifying any mosquito breeding sources
 
For current information about any treatments planned and to sign up for Spray Notifications by zip code, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
 
2023 West Nile virus activity map: https://www.fightthebite.net/media/wnv-activity-map/
 
Sacramento County: 151 mosquito samples and 82 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
 
Yolo County:  148 mosquito samples and 7 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