FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2023

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

 

WIDESPREAD WEST NILE VIRUS ACTIVITY CONTINUES
Free Mosquito Repellent Wipes available to National Night Out
Personal Protection is Key in Preventing Mosquitoes Bites and West Nile Virus
 
Elk Grove, Ca— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District received confirmation today that  43 new mosquito samples collected from various locations throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). Over the last few weeks WNV has been steadily increasing and currently remains intense and very widespread.  “July has been an extremely hot month! The triple digit temperatures we’ve seen recently combined  with lots of stagnant water from a very wet winter, likely contributed to the increased amount of of WNV activity we are seeing this season,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. For the past few weeks the District has been closely monitoring different areas where the virus has been rising. Currently, the city of Woodland in Yolo County has seen a sharp increase in mosquito samples that have tested positive for the virus. In response to the ongoing activity, the District has intensified ground treatments and is also considering the need for aerial spraying to quickly reduce mosquito populations and interrupt the virus transmission cycle to protect residents. A decision regarding aerial spraying will be made by the end of the week.
 
The heightened WNV activity comes as many local residents will be engaging in outdoor activities for National Night Out next Tuesday, August 1st.  In an effort to keep citizens protected against mosquito bites, the District is offering free mosquito repellent wipes, while supplies last. National Night Out focuses on crime and drug prevention and many neighborhoods come together for social gatherings during times of peak mosquito activity. “We know many people will be outside for this event and we want to remind the public that personal protection against mosquitoes is critical in the prevention of West Nile virus,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of the free repellent we are offering as part of our public outreach program,” added Goodman.
 
For anyone interested in getting the free repellent, please email Luz Maria Robles at info@FIGHTtheBITE.net to schedule a pick up time at the Elk Grove and Woodland offices during normal business hours Monday-Friday, 7:00a.m. to 3:30p.m.
 
For the most recent West Nile virus activity update map: https://www.fightthebite.net/media/wnv-activity-map
 

 
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