San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s mosquito-borne disease surveillance program recently detected West Nile virus (WNV) in a reported dead bird. The hummingbird was located in zip code 95237, Lockeford.
“As the days get hotter in the summer, mosquito populations will substantially increase. With more mosquitoes, viruses like West Nile virus will amplify, leading to a higher risk of WNV in humans,” said Aaron Devencenzi, District Public Information Officer. “It is initially on you, the public, to keep mosquitoes off.”
The District will continue to provide surveillance of mosquito populations and tests for mosquito-borne diseases. Based on the scientific data, mosquito control will continue with a concentration in the areas of most concern.
People must also take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Here is what you can do to help “Keep Mosquitoes Off” and prevent WNV:
Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property that can support mosquito development.
According to label instructions, when outdoors, apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients, including DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Repellents prevent mosquitoes from biting.
Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active, at dawn and dusk, especially for the first two hours after sunset.
Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and other protective clothing when outdoors.
Exclude mosquitoes from your home with tight-fitting screens on doors and windows.
Contact your veterinarian for information on vaccinating equine against WNV.
Report significant mosquito infestations and daytime biting mosquitoes to San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District at www.sjmosquito.org or (209) 982-4675, 1-800-300-4675.
Report dead birds to 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or to www.westnile.ca.gov.
Residents within San Joaquin County, including cities, can call 209-982-4675, or visit www.sjmosquito.org.
Office hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; closed for lunch from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Follow them on Facebook @SJmosquitoandvector for more tips and information.
