Remember to drain after the rain
Elk Grove, Calif.— While it’s not officially spring, the break in the rain and the warm temperatures have brought an increase in mosquitoes. Dry sunny days coupled with stagnant water left behind from significant rain this winter make the perfect combination for mosquitoes to breed.
“Over the past few weeks we’ve definitely started to see more mosquitoes. There are many areas with stagnant water creating a variety of mosquito breeding sites. Take some time this weekend to look around your yard and dump out any stagnant water you might find in buckets, pet dishes, bird baths, flowerpots and other containers that get filled with rain water. Reducing these mosquito breeding sites around the home now will go a long way later in the season and will help us out significantly.”
Gary Goodman, Manager for the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District.
While it’s too early to predict the severity of the mosquito season and the intensity of West Nile virus activity, one element is certain, having more water can definitely create more areas for mosquitoes to grow and multiply. The District asks residents to be responsible and do their part to eliminate areas of stagnant water around their home.
Over the past few weeks the District has received an increase in public service requests regarding aggressive day biting mosquitoes. These are mosquitoes that had been hibernating during the winter months and are now coming out for a blood meal. Fortunately this species of mosquito is only a seasonal nuisance and they do not pose a threat for West Nile virus. District staff are currently out responding to service requests and inspecting areas where these mosquitoes can breed. The best protection for this and other mosquitoes is to dress in long sleeves and pants or to wear an effective mosquito repellent while spending time outdoors. Insect repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus provide the best protection against mosquito transmitted diseases.
To report stagnant water sources, request a home inspection or if you are being bothered by mosquitoes, please call 1-800-429-1022 or fill out a service request online at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
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
