MVCAC > Mosquito and Vector News

Bird Tests Positive for West Nile Virus in Lake Arrowhead

From the Mountain News
July 28, 2021

Mosquitoes in Needles Also Tested Positive
San Bernardino County Public Health officials are urging residents to take precautions after a bird carcass collected in Lake Arrowhead and a collection of mosquitoes from Needles tested positive for West Nile virus.
The Steller’s jay, collected on July 5, is the first positive case of 2021 within the area served by the County Environmental Health Services Mosquito and Vector Control Program (MVCP). In the same week, a collection of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus in the city of Needles. MVCP is taking steps to eliminate mosquito breeding hazards.
People bitten by an infected mosquito may develop West Nile fever and experience flu-like symptoms which may include fever, body aches, skin rash, and fatigue. In some people, West Nile fever can develop into a more serious form of the disease. If you have been bitten by mosquitoes and are experiencing these symptoms, contact your medical care provider as soon as possible.

West Nile Virus Detected in Pasadena For First Time in 3 Years

From Pasadena Now
July 26, 2021

A local mosquito control official is urging the public to protect themselves from mosquito bites and intensify their mosquito prevention measures at home after West Nile virus was detected for the first time in Pasadena in 2021.

Levy Sun, communications director of the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (SGVMVCD), on Monday confirmed the detection of the virus in mosquito samples collected from traps set in Eaton Blanche Park in Pasadena.

Sun noted that this is the first time in three years that officials detected the West Nile virus in Pasadena.

The announcement comes a week after the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVCD) announced the detection of the virus in its service area.

“We detected a West Nile virus in the community around Eaton Blanche Park,” Sun said.

Officials Confirm Positive West Nile Virus Mosquito Samples in LA County

From SCV News
July 26, 2021

Mosquito samples collected from mosquito traps in three Los Angeles County cities tested positive for the West Nile virus, officials confirmed Thursday.

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District collected samples from mosquito traps in Bellflower (90706), Studio City (91602) and Tarzana (91356), confirming the presence of the virus in mosquito populations within the community.

While this confirmation serves as the District’s first positive West Nile virus mosquito pool this year, virus activity has been increasing steadily throughout California, including other vector control jurisdictions within the County.

New invasive species of mosquito found in AV

From the Antelope Valley Press
July 24, 2021

LANCASTER — An invasive mosquito species known to spread tropical diseases has been found in new locations in the Antelope Valley, and officials are warning residents to take precautions to prevent their spread.

The Aedes mosquitoes were found in two new locations in Palmdale, according to the Antelope Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District. One site is near 35th Street East and Avenue Q-4, and one site is near 37th Street East and Avenue Q. Neither site has recorded this species before, and these are the first two detections of this year.

The Aedes mosquito is not native to the area but was first found here in October 2018. It was traced to Los Angeles, said District Manager Leann Verdick.

HUMAN CASE OF WEST NILE VIRUS CONFIRMED IN SHASTA COUNTY

From Action News Now
July 23, 2021

SHASTA COUNTY, Calif. – An adult is the first person to test postive for the West Nile Virus in Shasta County this season, according to Shasta Health and Human Services and the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District.

The infected person is recovering at home.

West Nile Virus is almost always transmitted to people from the bite of an infected mosquito and cannot be passed through contact with other people or other animals, according to Shasta HHSA.

“West Nile virus is a serious illness spread by mosquitoes in Shasta County. Checking your yard regularly for standing water and protecting yourself from mosquito bites by using an EPA approved insect repellent can dramatically reduce your risk of contracting the disease,” District Manager of the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District Peter Bonkrude said.

West Nile virus-carrying mosquitoes detected in Los Angeles

From Market Research Telecast
July 24, 2021

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District in the USA (GLACVCD) this Thursday the confirmation of the first samples of West Nile virus (WNV) carrier mosquitoes, found this year in the area.

In addition, the entity’s officials indicated that virus activity has steadily increased throughout California. Positive samples were collected from insect traps located in Bellflower, Studio City, and Tarzana, confirming the presence of the virus in mosquito populations within the community.

WNV is a virus transmitted by mosquito bites that causes disease in humans, horses, and birds, which can even be lethal.

Susanne Kluh, director of Scientific-Technical Services at GLACVCD, mentioned that “the West Nile virus is detected every summer by local public health agencies because it is endemic to Los Angeles County. “

Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in L.A. County

From KTLA5
July 23, 2021

For the first time this year, mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus in Los Angeles County, officials said Thursday.

The confirmed samples were from mosquito traps in Bellflower (90706), Studio City (91602), and Tarzana (91356), according to a news release from the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District. In addition to the mosquitos, a dead bird found in Valley Village also tested positive.

More samples have been collected, but the results of those are pending.

The discovery of the infected mosquitoes comes amid a steady uptick in West Nile virus activity throughout California recently, according to officials. They noted that the virus is endemic to L.A. County and is detected each summer.

Merced County’s first West Nile Virus case of 2021 found in bird in Turlock area

From the Merced Sun-Star
July 21, 2021

A dead bird located near Merced County’s border with Stanislaus County has tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the Merced County Mosquito Abatement District.

The dead bird was found in the Turlock area, and the district was alerted to the positive test by the Merced County Department of Public Health.

It’s the first time the virus has been detected in Merced County this year.

MOSQUITOS WITH WEST NILE VIRUS FOUND TO BE ‘WIDESPREAD’ IN BUTTE COUNTY

From Action News Now
July 19, 2021

BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – 24 mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile virus, as 18 of them tested positive in the last week, the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District (BCMVC) said.

The BCMVC said the mosquitos carrying the virus have been found to be widespread on the valley floor of Butte County.

The mosquitos have been collected from Gridley to Hamilton City.

The BCMVC is urging people to drain all unneeded standing water and report any mosquito-breeding sites.

People are also urged to protect themselves from bites by wearing effective repellent, avoid being outdoors during dusk and dawn, and wear long-sleeve shirts and pants.

“With increased WNV activity being reported and identified by neighboring counties and the widespread distribution locally, it’s crucial that residents protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Doug Weseman, BCMVC Assistant Manager.

Mosquito pools test positive for Saint Louis encephalitis

From Imperial Valley Press
July 17, 2021

IMPERIAL COUNTY — Two local mosquito pools have tested positive for St. Louis encephalitis, the Imperial County Public Health Department announced Friday.

One of the mosquito pools was collected in El Centro near West Main Road just east of Austin Road. The other was in Imperial near the area of La Paz Drive and Puerto Vallarta Avenue. The samples were collected on Tuesday and results were received Friday.

“ As temperatures increase, so do mosquito populations and disease risk, which poses a serious public health threat in our communities,” said Imperial County Health Officer Dr. Stephen Munday. “Residents are strongly encouraged to check around properties and yards for mosquito breeding sources.”

The Public Health Department’s Vector Control Program has approximately 36 mosquito traps placed in strategic areas throughout the county, mostly within city limits. The traps are checked several times a week and mosquito pools are collected weekly.

Evidence of West Nile virus detected in Sutter County

From Yahoo News
July 17, 2021

The Sutter-Yuba Mosquito and Vector Control District has detected the first evidence of West Nile virus in Sutter County for 2021.

According to a press release, a mosquito sample recently collected in Meridian tested positive for the virus. A second sample collected west of Yuba City on Daphne Lane has also tested positive.

There have been no detections of the virus in dead birds, sentinel chicken flocks or humans, according to the press release.

Mosquito populations of the West Nile virus vector are lower than historically normal, however, production has increased with hot daytime temperatures.

West Nile Virus Discovered in Mosquitoes in Eastern Coachella Valley

From NBC Los Angeles
July 15, 2021

Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus were discovered in the east Coachella Valley community of Mecca, officials announced Thursday.

The infected mosquitoes were collected from a trap near Johnson Street and Avenue 70, according to the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District.

“As temperatures increase, so do mosquitoes,” said Tammy Gordon, a district spokeswoman. “When mosquito numbers rise, disease risk also increases. Wearing EPA-approved repellent lowers your chance of being bitten and getting sick.”

Vector control officials said this was the first positive test in the eastern Coachella Valley in 2021. It was not immediately clear whether there were other infected mosquitos discovered countywide.

Mosquito activity on the rise this summer

From the Turlock Journal
July 14, 2021

As the temperature climbs and mosquito activity increases, local health departments are reminding residents to take precautions against catching West Nile virus, as the California Department of Public Health reported the first death from West Nile Virus for the season.

The death was reported in San Luis Obispo County.

“West Nile virus activity in the state is increasing, so I urge Californians to take every possible precaution to protect against mosquito bites,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, Director of the California Department of Public Health and State Public Health Officer.

As of July 9, WNV has been detected in 45 dead birds from 6 counties and 177 mosquito samples from 13 counties. Hot temperatures this month are contributing to increasing numbers of mosquitoes and the increased risk of virus transmission to humans. So far this season, activity is within expected levels. The risk of disease due to WNV usually increases at this time of year and is highest throughout the summer and early fall.

Mosquito Control Official Urges Pasadenans To Take Action After West Nile Virus Claims First California Victim of 2021

From Pasadena Now
July 13, 2021

Following the first reported death from the West Nile virus in California this year, local mosquito control officials are telling people what they can to prevent contracting the deadly mosquito-borne virus.

That includes eliminating all sources of standing water by emptying flower pots, old car tires, buckets, and other containers so the virus-carrying mosquito wouldn’t have anywhere to breed.

The California Department of Public Health (CPDH) said the death occurred in San Luis Obispo County on Friday, July 9.

“West Nile virus activity in the state is increasing, so I urge Californians to take every possible precaution to protect against mosquito bites,” said state Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, director of the California Department of Public Health.

California Department of Public Health Confirms First Human West Nile Virus Death of 2021

From the Sierra Sun Times
July 11, 2021

July 11, 2021 – SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced last Friday the first confirmed death in California due to West Nile virus (WNV). The death occurred in San Luis Obispo County.

“West Nile virus activity in the state is increasing, so I urge Californians to take every possible precaution to protect against mosquito bites,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, Director of the California Department of Public Health and State Public Health Officer.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals by the bite of an infected mosquito. As of July 9, WNV has been detected in 45 dead birds from 6 counties and 177 mosquito samples from 13 counties. Hot temperatures this month are contributing to increasing numbers of mosquitoes and the increased risk of virus transmission to humans. So far this season, activity is within expected levels. The risk of disease due to WNV usually increases at this time of year and is highest throughout the summer and early fall.

Mosquito numbers expected to rise, First West Nile virus infection in Kern

From KGET
July 10, 2021

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Some say the scorching weather is doing one good thing for Kern county. That would be decreasing the activity of one annoying nuisance, the anklebiter. Also known as, mosquitos.

Kern county averages 25 West Nile infections a year, with last year being an outlier of eight recorded infections. Officials from Kern Mosquito and Vector Control said the decrease is either because more people used sunscreen or because there were less people outside during the pandemic.

The heat affects bugs just like how it affects people too. The bugs become less active during the hotter times of the day and instead look for shelter. However, Terry Knight from Vector Control said the mosquitos look like they have adapted.

Hotter weather means more mosquitoes in the Central Valley

From Your Central Valley
July 8, 2021

FRESNO, Calif. (KGPE) – The life-cycle of a mosquito tends to speed up in warmer temperatures. Generations of mosquitoes are multiplying faster in the Valley heat and surveillance shows local numbers quickly increasing.

Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District biologist Chenoa Defreece says, “Our concern of course with increasing temperatures is that mosquitoes become adults quicker, as well as that, helps with the transmission of diseases. As you have more mosquitoes out, they’re biting other individuals, and perpetuating possible disease outbreaks.”

Mosquito monitoring and testing in Fresno County has been positive for West Nile Virus 21 times this year. A horse in Fresno County also tested positive for the virus.

West Nile Virus detected in Sonoma County

From the Sonoma County Gazette
July 6, 2021

The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District has confirmed finding the first dead bird infected with West Nile virus for 2021. The American Crow was collected near Country Club Drive and Piezzi Road in Santa Rosa and is the first detection of West Nile virus in Sonoma County for the 2021 season.

“Mosquitoes that feed on West Nile virus infected birds can become infected with the virus and then transmit it to humans,” stated Dr. Kelly Liebman, Scientific Programs Manager for the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District. “This dead bird is a reminder that West Nile virus is present in our communities, and that residents should continue to practice personal protection measures against mosquitoes.”

District staff will continue to trap, test, and monitor the abundance of adult mosquitoes in the area and perform control operations as necessary. Vector control technicians are also inspecting all known sources of mosquito production and checking for new sources.

West Nile virus and invasive mosquitos arrive in Shasta County

From KRCR
July 3, 2021

ANDERSON, Calif. — Positive tests from samples of adult mosquitos in the Anderson and Shingletown area confirm the West Nile virus has returned to Shasta county.

The Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District (SMVCD) said in a press release Saturday that the positive tests came from routine collections as part of their surveillance program. The district is now attempting to decrease mosquito populations through ground treatments in areas where the positive mosquitos were found. They are also continuing their widespread mosquito trapping and testing to monitor virus activity.

“These positive samples are earlier when compared to previous years, but the higher temperatures can increase virus transmission rates in mosquitoes,” says Peter Bonkrude, SMVCD Manager. “The next few weeks are showing above-average temperatures that are conducive to mosquito production and virus transmission, so people need to protect themselves from mosquito bites.”

WEST NILE VIRUS ACTIVE IN MOSQUITOES IN BUTTE COUNTY

From Action News Now
July 1, 2021

BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – West Nile Virus (WNV) is now active in Butte County according to the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District on Thursday.

Three groups of mosquitoes in various areas throughout Butte County were tested and confirmed to be positive for the virus.

The positive tests are the first confirmed incidents of WNV in Butte County this year.

Since 2004, 253 residents have been infected with the virus, nine of which have died.

Kern Mosquito and Vector give tips to reduce mosquitoes

From Bakersfield Now
June 23, 2021

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Kern Mosquito and Vector Control District hosted an information event in recognition of National Mosquito Control Awareness Week.

They provided methods on how residents can reduce mosquitoes in and around homes and businesses.

Reduce Mosquito Breeding Sources Around Your Home:

Maintain swimming pools (prevent the water from turning green)
Stock ponds and water troughs with mosquito fish. Contact Kern Mosquito & Vector Control.
Remove standing water from all items around your home: flower pots, fountains, bird baths, wading pools, pet bowls, gardening tools and toys.
Clean/Scrub all containers that collect water weekly to remove remaining eggs.
Last year, Kern residents were faced with a new breed of mosquito, the Aedes aegypti, which is considered to be an especially aggressive breed as it can bite a person several times while it is feeding.

Kern Vector Control received almost 4,000 calls from residents requesting services because of mosquitoes in or near their homes and the bites they were receiving.

Heat means mosquitoes, but area residents can help destroy their breeding grounds

From Bakersfield.com
June 23, 2021

When dealing with mosquitoes — surely among the most hated insects in the world — sometimes it helps to look on the bright side.

For example, there are more than 3,000 species of mosquitoes on planet Earth, but only about 26 are in Kern County — and of those, only a few are considered prominent pests.

The bad news is that Aedes aegypti, Bakersfield’s newest mosquito species, has become a real pain in the … err, ankle, for area residents.

“With the addition of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes here in Kern County, the word ‘nuisance’ probably isn’t strong enough,” said Terry Knight, spokesman for the Kern Mosquito & Vector Control District. “Anybody that knows this mosquito may know her by the nickname, ankle-biter.

“There’s a true hatred and a true anger toward this mosquito,” Knight said, “and it’s generating a lot of phone calls to our district.”

SCV News | Vector Control Encourages Residents to Make Mosquitoes and Their Bites ‘One Less Worry’ This Summer

From the California News Times
June 21, 2021

Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District launches summer campaign “Reduce one mosquito and reduce one worry” during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week to make mosquito control a part of daily life for residents Is encouraging.

The latest in the district Information on public servicesTired and overwhelmed parents are plagued by life-sized mosquitoes. She remembered that mosquitoes throwing tips, throwing, and taking action with repellents reduced their anxiety by one.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of the daily lives of residents, especially families. Mary Joycoburn, Community Affairs Director at GLACVCD, said:” This campaign is for families. We hope that taking these precautions to protect ourselves will help parents and caregivers reduce their mosquito worries by one. ”

Fight the bite: Kicking off National Mosquito Control Awareness week

From KESQ
June 21, 2021

With National Mosquito Control Awareness week underway, Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District are pushing for residents to take action to avoid the pesky biters from spreading diseases.

In Coachella Valley vector control says there are three mosquito species that carry West Nile Virus, Dengue, and Zika.

In 2016 the Aeedes Aegypti Mosquito was found in the Coachella Valley. This specific mosquito is a common one that transmits viruses. Its appearance is small black and white, they’re aggressive day biters, and live in urban areas with people. This mosquito is also known to be hard to get rid of.

Next month, Cathedral City, Coachella, and Palm Springs are set to be sprayed with a treatment that would help deter mosquitos.

Cathedral City will be sprayed every Saturday, July 10-31; then every other Saturday August 14 and 28th.

West Nile Virus Detected In 3 Mosquito Samples In Stockton

From CBS Sacramento
June 19, 2021

STOCKTON (CBS13) – West Nile Virus was detected in three samples of mosquitoes collected in Stockton, the San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District said on Friday.

The district said the samples were collected in zip codes 95207 and 95209.

According to the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 5 people who are infected with WNV experience a fever and other symptoms. About 1 out of 150 develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. There is no vaccine or medication for WNV found in people.

“Our surveillance system is designed for the earliest possible detection of WNV positive mosquitoes. With this find, the District will be increasing mosquito control efforts to further reduce the mosquito populations in these areas,” said district spokesperson Aaron Devencenzi. “However, residents need to take all necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites.”

Mosquito found with West Nile virus prompts spraying in southeast Fresno neighborhood

From the Fresno Bee
June 18, 2021

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus have been discovered this week in southeast Fresno, spurring plans to deploy a spray truck to apply insecticide to kill the biting insects.

Katherine Ramirez of the Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District said Friday that the agency’s staff trapped a mosquito carrying the virus in the neighborhood south of Belmont Avenue between Clovis and Fowler avenues.

Spraying was planned for Friday evening, when the common house mosquitoes that can carry the virus are active, said Ramirez, the district’s science education coordinator.

Visalia cemetery asks public to eliminate standing water as mosquito infestation worsens

From the Visalia Times-Delta
June 18, 2021

Visalia Public Cemetery officials are urging the public to help reduce standing water to control a ballooning mosquito infestation.

“Due to the increasing infestation of mosquitos, the cemetery needs to drastically reduce and attempt to eliminate standing water,” cemetery officials said in a press release.

“The Cemetery District appreciates the public’s assistance in our efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding and helping us to keep the grounds safe and clean.”

Free mosquito fish take bite out of West Nile Virus threat in SJC

From the Manteca/Ripon Bulletin
June 17, 2021

San Joaquin County since 2004 has verified 178 human cases and 64 equine cases of mosquito borne West Nile Virus as well as 584 dead birds.

The first bird this year to die from the West Nile Virus was a wild finch found in the Ripon area.

The West Nile Virus can make human sick and even kill them. There have been 326 human deaths in California — including in San Joaquin County — from the West Nile Virus during the past 15 years.

Mosquitoes transmit the West Nile Virus as well as the potentially deadly yellow fever that has been detected in San Joaquin County for the past three years.

It is why the San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District is urging residents to take advantage of the free mosquitofish distribution they are conducting in the South County.

West Nile virus found in dead crows | South Pasadena

From the California News Times
June 15, 2021

Aedes albopictus is a new invasive species that has recently inhabited Southern California.

Monday, June 7th was the first positive test for West Nile virus (WNV) in Los Angeles County by San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District The creature in question (SGVMVCD) was the carcass of a crow collected in South Pasadena. The discovery of positive dead birds emphasizes that WNV may be circulating in the area.

SGVMVCD, one of several vector animal management districts in Los Angeles County, focuses on mosquito-related data in the area, according to its website. The collection of statistics submitted for epidemiological studies relies on public reports of dead birds in the community. A collection of 10-50 mosquitoes from the trap. Regularly check for illness in adult women. Monitoring of stagnant water sources that encapsulate swimming pools, gutters, and storm drains.

West Nile Virus Detected In Mosquitoes Collected On June 2 Modesto

From CBS 13
June 12, 2021

MODESTO (CBS13) – The West Nile Virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected on June 2, the Stanislaus County Health Services Agency announced on Friday.

The mosquitoes were from the northeastern part of the city, and no human cases have been detected yet. Stanislaus County said it only has one positive sample of the virus.

According to Stanislaus health officials, as of June 10, the virus has now been detected in five California counties: Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Kern and Los Angeles. Additionally, the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District recorded a positive sample in Yolo County on June 8.

Yellow Fever Mosquito Found Again In Stockton

From the Escalon Times
June 9, 2021

The San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s mosquito surveillance system has detected the invasive yellow fever mosquito (Aedes aegypti) again, for the third consecutive year, in the Brookside area of Stockton.

“This is the earliest find of the yellow fever mosquito in the last three years for San Joaquin County,” said Aaron Devencenzi, Public Information Officer of the District. “The public can help prevent the spread of these invasive mosquitoes by calling in daytime biting mosquitoes to the District.”

The District will continue surveillance efforts by placing traps used to collect adult mosquitoes and mosquito eggs. Additional measures may include the District’s staff conducting door-to-door inspections of the residential area near the recent Aedes aegypti detection.

Mosquito Control In Claremont

From the Claremont-La Verne Patch
June 9, 2021

Property owners and residents are reminded that standing water found around the home in cans, buckets, discarded tires, bird baths, and clogged rain gutters can create a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Please perform routine inspections of yard areas of standing water and containers that may hold water. Unmaintained swimming pools, spas, and decorative fountains can also become a potential breeding ground. Property owners and residents are reminded to perform routine maintenance on a regular basis. They should be kept in operable condition and free of algae growth. If you see a pool, pond, or fountain that appears unfiltered or contains green, stagnant water, please contact the Community Improvement Division at (909) 399-5467, or the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District at (626) 814-9466.

Yellow Fever Mosquito Detected In San Joaquin County

From CBS Sacramento
June 8, 2021

San Joaquin County (CBS13) – Mosquitoes that carry yellow fever have been detected in San Joaquin County.

Invasive species were found in the Brookside area of Stockton, according to the county’s mosquitoes and vector management area. This is the third consecutive year that this Aedes aegypti has been discovered in the prefecture.

“This is the earliest discovery of Aedes aegypti in San Joaquin County in the last three years.” The general public can prevent the spread of these invading mosquitoes by attracting daytime bites to the area. “

Yellow fever is a fatal illness that can lead to bleeding and organ failure.

The district said it would continue its surveillance activities by installing traps to collect insect and mosquito eggs.

West Nile virus found in dead crow in South Pasadena

From the South Pasadena Patch
June 7, 2021

SOUTH PASADENA, CA — The first indication this year of West Nile virus circulating in Los Angeles County was detected in a dead crow collected in South Pasadena, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District announced today.

West Nile virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Birds can become sick from WNV, but do not spread the virus directly to people.

“West Nile virus is endemic, which means we’ll detect it every year in our communities,” said SGVMVCD Scientific Program Manager Melissa Doyle. “As the weather heats up, everyone should prevent mosquito bites and eliminate stagnant water around their home.”

Zika Virus RNA Discovered In Free Ranging Bats For The First Time

From IFL Science
June 4, 2021

Scientists from Colorado State University have found the genetic material of the Zika virus in free-ranging African bats. This discovery is the first reported detection of RNA from this virus in bats outside of controlled experiments. As reported in Scientific Reports, the animals seem to be infected naturally, or via the bite of infected mosquitos.

The Zika virus is part of the Flaviviridae family, which also includes the West Nile and dengue viruses, which are all mosquito-borne diseases in humans so it is crucial to understand how they might spread in animals too.

The team analyzed 198 samples from bats gathered in the Zika Forest and surrounding areas in Uganda. Four bats, from three different species, had the Zika virus RNA. Most of the samples predate the major Zika outbreaks, which started in Micronesia and French Polynesia before moving to the Americas.

Warm weather means more mosquitoes

From the Colusa County Sun Herald
June 2, 2021

Colusa Mosquito Abatement District Manager Dan Kiely said as the weather begins to warm up, mosquito production will increase as well.

“People have been more cautious lately when it comes to venturing outside,” said Kiely. “Now that we are beginning to experience more outdoor activities, it is very important to protect ourselves from being exposed to mosquitoes. Nicer weather has many of us spending more time in our yards. Now is a great time to look for any standing water that may become a mosquito problem, such as neglected swimming pools, bird baths, clogged rain gutters, old buckets, tires and pet water dishes.”

Two mosquito samples and three birds test positive for West Nile virus in Galt

From the Daily Democrat
June 1, 2021

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District confirmed the first mosquito samples of the season have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The two mosquito samples were collected from central Galt.

“As we expected, the very warm weather we’ve had recently increased the number of mosquitoes and accelerated virus activity,” District Manager Gary Goodman said. “It’s important for residents to take these findings seriously and do everything they can to protect themselves.”

Three birds picked up from Galt also tested positive for the virus. This is the only area within district boundaries where WNV has been detected.

Last year in California there were 231 confirmed human cases of the disease, including 11 fatalities.

West Nile-positive mosquitoes detected in Sacramento County, officials say

From the Sacramento Bee
June 1, 2021

Local mosquito control officials said Tuesday that workers have confirmed Sacramento County’s first two positive cases of West Nile virus in mosquitoes of 2021, in the same area the virus was recently detected in dead birds.

The two samples came from central Galt, according to a news release from the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District. The district announced last Wednesday that it picked up three dead birds in Galt that had tested positive for the virus.

“As we expected, the very warm weather we’ve had recently increased the number of mosquitoes and accelerated virus activity,” said mosquito district manager Gary Goodman in a statement.

Virus Potentially Fatal to Humans Found in 3 Dead Birds for the First Time in Sacramento County

From The Science Times
May 28, 2021

Three scrub jays found dead in the Galt area tested positive for the West Nile virus, confirming the first case of a disease potentially fatal to humans in Sacramento County, health officials have reported.

The California scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica) is a species of scrub jay native to western North America whose range is from southern British Columbia to all of California then western Nevada near Reno to west of the Sierra Nevada.

Galt City (2010 population: 23,647) is part of the Sacramento County metropolitan area.

The case of the nesting scrub jays was first reported by the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District officials on May 26. They said birds like crows, magpies, and scrub jays are especially susceptible to the virus, noting that the discovery of the birds with West Nile virus is a “good reminder” for people that the virus is present in the area.

Sacramento region’s first West Nile virus case of 2021 detected in dead birds

From the Sacramento Bee
May 26, 2021

Sacramento County’s first positive West Nile virus cases of 2021 have been detected in dead birds.

The birds — three nestling scrub jays — were found recently in the Galt area, the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District said in a news release Wednesday.

“Finding the first indication of West Nile activity is always significant because it provides an early warning,” said Gary Goodman, manager of the mosquito and vector district, in a statement. “It confirms that the virus is present, shows us where we may find positive mosquito samples and where human cases may develop later in the season.”

Pandemic shows need to invest in public health protections

From the Capitol Weekly
May 26, 2021

One thing we have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic is that there is an immense need to invest in public health and disease prevention tools before there is another widespread outbreak. While we cannot fix the past, we do have an opportunity to ensure California residents are protected from debilitating and deadly diseases in the future.

Our changing climate has enabled the spread of invasive mosquitoes capable of transmitting exotic viruses such as Zika, dengue, and yellow fever. According to the California Department of Public Health, over the last ten years, invasive Aedes mosquitoes have spread to more than 300 cities and towns in 22 California counties. They are different from those that are found naturally in California in that they exploit small, often unnoticed water sources and thrive in people’s backyards and patios—areas where intervention by mosquito and vector control districts is costly and time-consuming.

New test will benefit children with asymptomatic Zika

From UW Medicine Newsroom
May 20, 2021

A new device will let doctors monitor infants and toddlers who are asymptomatic with Zika after contracting the virus in utero from their mothers, according to a recently published report in the journal Physiological Measurement.

A team of researchers, led by Dr. Martin Frasch, an OB-GYN researcher with the University of Washington School of Medicine, studied whether an electrocardiogram (ECG) would detect heart abnormalities in infants and toddlers months or years after their exposure. They found that, in fact, they could by using a device about the size of a small hockey puck.

“These toddlers are otherwise without any clinical symptoms, but retain this memory of exposure to the Zika virus in utero,” Frasch said. “What seems to connect the dots here is that the Zika virus may create a hypoxic environment for the fetus by its effects on placental physiology. Consequently what we are seeing here appears to be the signature of chronic hypoxia caused by the Zika virus impacting the heart rate variabiliy of the toddlers in this very specific way.”

LOCAL AREA BIRD TESTS WEST NILE VIRUS POSITIVE

From San Joaquin County MVCD
May 14, 2021

(STOCKTON, CA) – San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s (District) mosquito-borne disease surveillance program recently detected West Nile virus (WNV) in a dead bird (wild finch) collected in the Ripon area, zip code 95366. “This is the first find of WNV activity in San Joaquin County for 2021,” said Aaron Devencenzi, Public Information Officer of the District. “With warm weather, mosquito populations will continue to increase, leading to an elevated risk of WNV in humans,” said Devencenzi.

Peak Mosquito Season is Coming. Here’s All You Need to Know

From NBC Los Angeles
May 6, 2021

It’s that time of year again: it’s time for swimming, basking in the sun, and of course, fending off annoying bites from mosquitoes.

What’s worse, in Southern California, is the presence of an aggressive ankle-biter mosquito that will bite multiple times, and doesn’t wait for dusk — they’ll attack right in the middle of the day, or even inside your house. That’s atypical mosquito behavior, at least for the kinds that are native to Southern California.

If you’ve noticed over the last few years that you’ve been bitten multiple times around your ankles, you were likely victim to the Aedes mosquito, which officials believe arrived on a container ship from Asia. It’s an invasive species, meaning not native to Southern California. And they have the potential to carry harmful diseases, including the Zika virus.

City Of Fountain Valley: Save Water And Stop Mosquitoes

From the Fountain Valley Patch
May 5, 2021

Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District and Irvine Ranch Water District have teamed up to remind residents that mosquito control is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone.

The best method to reduce mosquito breeding on your property is to limit the number of potential sources. Walk your yard and check to see how many of breeding sites you have on your property. If standing water is found, remove the water or remove the source. If the source is not removed, you must check weekly for standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.

Invasive mosquito terrorizes some Visalia neighborhoods. Vector control urges community support

From the Visalia Times Delta
April 28, 2021

An invasive mosquito species that feasts on humans during the day has seen an uptick in Visalia neighborhoods.

The special district that manages the pests may seek a property tax assessment to help control the mosquito menaces, called Aedes aegypti or Yellow Fever Mosquito.

The species was rediscovered in Tulare County in 2017 and its population has exploded in the years since. The aggressive mosquito is a daytime biter — unlike most native California species — and can breed on any source of freshwater, including plant trays and pet water dishes.

The mosquito can carry deadly diseases, such as Yellow Fever, Dengue, and Zika. None of these viruses have been transmitted within California, yet, according to the Department of Public Health, but have become widespread in other parts of the world where the mosquito is active.

Residents urged to eliminate places where mosquito breed

From The Ceres Courier
April 28, 2021

As the temperatures increase, so do the number of mosquitoes which are responsible for spreading diseases such as West Nile Virus and Saint Louis encephalitis virus. The Turlock Mosquito Abatement District – which includes Ceres – reminds residents to take steps to prevent mosquitoes and mosquito‐borne diseases.

During 2020, mosquitoes were responsible for causing 231 human cases and 20 horse cases of West Nile Virus in California. In Stanislaus County, there were 36 human WNV cases along with three horse cases during 2020. There was also one human case of St. Louis encephalitis virus.

The district urges residents to “Dump and Drain” standing water around their properties.

“Preventing opportunities for mosquitoes to breed around your home can help protect you and your family,” said David Heft, general manager for Turlock Mosquito Abatement District.

Mosquito district advises residents to use precautions as temperatures rise

From the Turlock Journal
April 28, 2021

As pleasant spring temperatures transition into sweltering summer days and nights, mosquitoes will be more active and looking to make a meal of any arm, leg, neck, etc. they can find. Along with their ravenous appetite comes a risk of contracting West Nile Virus and St. Louis encephalitis.

Both the Turlock and Eastside Mosquito Abatement Districts would like to remind residents to take steps like “Dump and Drain” to prevent mosquitoes and mosquito‐borne diseases.

In 2020, California recorded 231 cases of West Nile Virus in humans and 20 cases in horses. Of the 231 human cases, 11 were fatal, according to the California Department of Public Health.

Stanislaus County saw 36 cases of West Nile Virus in humans and three in horses. The county also recorded one human case of St. Louis encephalitis.

As of April 23, there have been no cases of West Nile Virus reported in California.

Kern Mosquito and Vector Control to provide update on this year’s mosquito season

From KGET.com
April 27, 2021

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Kern County Mosquito and Vector Control will provide an update on this year’s mosquito season on Wednesday.

This time last year Kern County saw an uptick of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are also known as ankle-biters. This breed of mosquito can bite multiple times, and transmit dangerous viruses such as Zika, Yellow Fever, Dengue Fever and more. None of these viruses have been detected in the county.

Kern County Mosquito and Vector Control will also provide tips to avoid being bitten.

County to host mosquito fish giveaways

From The Union
April 22, 2021

The Nevada County Environmental Health Department Vector Control Program will be holding Mosquito Fish Giveaways at the Eric Rood Administrative Building, 950 Maidu Ave, Nevada City. All giveaways will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Drive-thru pick-ups only; please remain in your car. Containers will be provided to safely take the fish home.

This year’s dates will be May 6 and 20; June 3 and 17; and July 1.