The extended hot weather is expected to result in a population increase of mosquitoes. This increase can elevate people’s risk of contracting West Nile virus (WNV).

“Mosquitoes develop quickly in hot weather and if they carry WNV, the virus amplifies faster in their bodies,” said Aaron Devencenzi, Public Information Officer with San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District (District). “Using EPA registered repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are recommended to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease.”

West Nile virus is active throughout San Joaquin County and many parts of California. The District is actively trapping, testing, and spraying for mosquitoes. Eliminating standing water and using mosquitofish in water troughs, neglected pools, and water features are recommended to reduce mosquitoes around homes and properties.

Spraying is scheduled the evening of Tuesday, Sept. 5 or Wednesday, Sept. 6 for areas including Farmington (Highway 4, Escalon-Bellota and San Julian Road areas); the rural North Escalon area (Skiff, Biederman and Van Allen) and rural Southeast Escalon area (Dutra Lane south to Highway 120, east to Victory, west to Henry).

For 2017 in San Joaquin County, there are 163 mosquito samples, seven dead birds, and one horse that have tested positive for WNV. In addition, there are five human cases being reported by the local health department. For more information on human cases in San Joaquin County, call San Joaquin County Public Health Services at (209) 468-3411.

Also, report significant mosquito problems including daytime biting mosquitoes to San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District at www.sjmosquito.org or call (209) 982-4675, 1-800-300-4675.

Report dead birds and tree squirrels to 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or www.westnile.ca.gov.

For additional information, request service, request free mosquitofish, or to sign up for the District’s spray notification system, go to www.sjmosquito.org.