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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 14, 2008

 

            Contact:  Luz Maria Rodriguez, Public Information Officer

Office:  916.405.2082  |  Cell:  916.416.6337

E-mail:  lrodriguez@FIGHTtheBITE.net

 

MOSQUITO CONTROL PROCEEDS WITH PLAN FOR AERIAL RESPONSE

--Treatment of Adult Mosquitoes Begins Wednesday in High Risk Areas

 

Elk Grove, Calif.— The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announced today that aerial treatment for adult mosquitoes that may carry the potentially fatal West Nile virus is scheduled for three consecutive nights beginning Wednesday, July 16^th from approximately 8:00 pm to midnight over Elk Grove/Florin and Pocket Area of South Sacramento.  “High mosquito infection rates indicate we should be treating adult mosquitoes in order to protect public health,” said David Brown, District Manager.

Environmental conditions delayed aerial treatment last week and will continue to be evaluated leading up to the aerial treatment Wednesday evening (including smoke, wind, etc.), but factors now indicate that weather conditions are favorable for treating adult mosquitoes.  Approximately 23,000 acres of South Sacramento including the Pocket area plus 2.4 miles east to the Railroad line, as well as, the Florin/Elk Grove area from Elder Creek Rd. down to Elk Grove Blvd will be treated with Evergreen 60-6, an insecticide approved for use in mosquito control by the Environmental Protection Agency. While attempts are made to notify the public, the District may postpone or cancel a scheduled treatment due to weather and/or other reasons.  For additional details including a map of the treatment area, information on Evergreen 60-6, or to sign up for Spray Notifications, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net.  

Despite the current focus on South Sacramento, all residents should remain cautious as virus activity has been detected throughout Sacramento County.  “You can do your part by draining standing water around the home,” stated Brown, “but your neighbors may not do the same so it is important to protect yourself by wearing an effective mosquito repellent while outdoors.” 

2008 West Nile virus activity update for Sacramento and Yolo counties

Level 2—18 dead birds, 0 sentinel chickens, 48 mosquito samples and 0 humans 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