ROSEVILLE, Calif. – The first mosquito sample in Placer County to test positive this year for the West Nile virus has been reported in the rural area west of the City of Lincoln.
“This is a clear indication that West Nile virus activity is increasing. We are very concerned that human transmission can happen as mosquito populations begin to increase,” stated Joel Buettner, General Manager of the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District.
Due to this latest development, the District has increased surveillance of larval and adult mosquitoes in the area and treatments for adult and larval mosquitoes are already underway in the affected area.
It is inevitable that people will be outside taking advantage of the milder temperatures this week, especially during peak mosquito feeding times at dawn and dusk. Vector control experts urge residents of Placer County to be aware that West Nile virus is a threat, especially with virus activity increasing in the surrounding counties of Sacramento and Sutter. Placer County residents can defend themselves against mosquitoes by wearing an effective insect repellent and staying inside, behind screened windows and doors, whenever possible.
The Placer Mosquito and Vector Control advises the public to implement the 3 D’s of protection:
- Drain any standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
- Defend yourself and your home by using an effective insect repellent and dressing protectively when outside, and making sure screens on doors and windows are in good condition.
- Contact the District for any additional help controlling mosquitoes around your home.
For more information, contact the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District at (888) 768-2343 or www.placermosquito.org.
2011 Placer County West Nile virus activity update: 0 dead birds, 0 sentinel chickens, 1 mosquito sample, and 0 humans have tested positive for West Nile Virus to date.
Contact: Ada Barros, Public Information Officer (916) 343-0009.