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ELK GROVE, Calif.April 17, 2020— Spring is in the air and so are mosquitoes! The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announces Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week, April 19-25. This week kicks off the District’s public information and education campaign to keep residents aware about the health risks associated with mosquitoes. The current focus on the importance of public health with the Covid-19 pandemic also provides a great reminder that residents need to take all precautionary measures to protect themselves from mosquito transmitted diseases. “Mosquito Awareness Week is an excellent opportunity for our communities to learn more about mosquitoes and how they can protect themselves from diseases such as West Nile virus,” said District Manager Gary Goodman. “As temperatures warm up, conditions will be perfect for mosquitoes to thrive,” indicated Goodman. The District encourages residents to take advantage of the shelter in place orders to inspect their yards thoroughly and ensure they are not breeding mosquitoes. “We are all spending most of our time at home, so remember to drain any water from flowerpots, birth baths, tires, dog dishes and other small sources where water can accumulate and breed mosquitoes. Reducing mosquitoes now, will go a long way later in the season,” emphasized Goodman.
While Covid-19 is not transmitted by mosquitoes, they can certainly transmit a variety of other debilitating diseases, especially West Nile virus which is prevalent in California. Also of concern is that last year, the invasive mosquito Aedes aegypti was detected in different areas of Citrus Heights within Sacramento County. Invasive mosquitoes pose a significant health threat because they are capable of transmitting dangerous viruses including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya.
WHO: The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District
WHAT: Activities for Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week
WHEN:
Monday, April 20 — Official kick off of the District’s public information and education campaign
Tuesday, April 21—Announcement of the annual Fight the Bite contest winners and awarding of prizes
Wednesday, April 22 — Annual Repellent Distribution to organizations that serve the homeless
The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District provides year
round mosquito and vector control services. The main goal for the District is
to protect public health by preventing the transmission of diseases and
improving the quality of life for all residents.
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