Mosquito District Warns Of Early West Nile Virus Detections

ELK GROVE (CBS13) - The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District has confirmed five mosquito samples and two new dead birds have tested positive for the West Nile virus recently.

Though birds had already tested positive in recent weeks, the positive mosquito samples found in both Sacramento and Yolo counties are coming much earlier than previous years and could signal a longer and very busy mosquito season, the district said.

"This virus activity detected in the mosquito population is about a month early. Typically we don't detect infected mosquito samples until July," said District Manager David Brown.

Based on the California Department of Public Health virus risk assessment, the district said it is in emergency planning mode.

"We want to do what we can now to reduce immature mosquitoes and areas where they breed before they emerge as adult mosquitoes" Brown said.

The mosquito samples that tested positive were collected from a trap in the city of Davis and four in the Gerber/Bradshaw area of south Sacramento County on Tuesday. The dead birds were collected Monday in Sacramento and Tuesday in Elk Grove.

This recent West Nile Virus activity comes as area residents prepare to enjoy outdoor activities for the long holiday weekend.

"Please protect yourself from mosquito bites by using an effective mosquito repellent" said Brown.

In response to the detection of West Nile virus activity, the district will increase its mosquito trapping and surveillance in the area to find sources where mosquitoes may be breeding. Ground spraying may also be conducted to rapidly decrease the numbers of infected adult mosquitoes.

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