Stay Protected from Mosquitoes this Labor Day Weekend
Elk Grove, Ca. — Labor Day is the last official holiday of the summer, however this doesn’t mean it’s the end of mosquito season! This weekend many will be enjoying family barbeques, pool parties and fun outdoor activities, however the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District reminds residents of the threat for contracting West Nile virus and the need to stay protected from mosquito bites. “Birds and mosquitoes throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties are still testing positive for the disease” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “This means that the risk of becoming infected continues to be high and we can’t let our guard down. We all have to protect ourselves with an effective repellent when we’re outdoors” said Goodman.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or the plant based Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus. Always follow label directions when applying repellent. The District offers free mosquito repellent wipes while supplies last, for communities holding large outdoor evening activities.
This season, virus activity has been constant and very widespread throughout both Sacramento and Yolo counties. “We still have a few weeks before the summer season officially ends, it’s very important that everyone be proactive and stay protected, especially as we head into the holiday weekend.” To date, there are 4 confirmed human West Nile virus cases in Sacramento County and 4 in Yolo County. Throughout the state there are 78 human cases reported including 2 fatalities.
For current information about any treatments planned, please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to mailing lists to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code.
2016 West Nile virus activity update map: http://www.fightthebite.net/
Sacramento County: 1 fatality, four human cases, 424 mosquito samples and 397 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 1 fatality, four human cases, 239 mosquito samples and 64 dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
