WEST NILE VIRUS ACTIVITY CONTINUES TO BE WIDESPREAD

Elk Grove, Ca— Risk of West Nile virus is ongoing throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties as mosquito samples and dead birds continue to test positive and the overall abundance of mosquitoes is very high.

“The threat of West Nile virus (WNV) continues,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. “Don’t let your guard down, we are still in the middle of summer and everyone needs to be aware and protect themselves from mosquitoes and West Nile virus,” he indicated.

While WNV activity is intense and widespread, the city of Elk Grove is an area of concern that is being closely monitored. If more WNV activity is detected, aerial spraying to control the mosquitoes infected with the virus may be necessary. Laboratory testing results will be available later this week to help make a determination. In the meantime, ground treatments in area parks, agricultural areas and neighborhoods will continue as needed.

Last week, the California Department of Public Health announced the first WNV related fatality was from Sacramento County. In addition, there are multiple other non-fatal cases, yet the very severe form of the disease that are also waiting to be confirmed by the Sacramento County Division of Public Health. The neuro-invasive cases may include symptoms such as headache, high fever, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis and seizures. To date, throughout the state there 10 confirmed human cases including two others in Yolo County.

For current information about any treatments planned please visitwww.FIGHTtheBITE.net Residents can subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code. To sign up, visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net and go to Spray Notifications. Information for current treatments planned is also available on the District website.