Friday June 26th, 2015
Michael Kimball, Manager of the Sutter-Yuba Mosquito & Vector Control District, reports that West Nile virus activity has been detected in Sutter and Yuba Counties. Activity is occurring earlier compared to previous seasons. The District has detected WNV in mosquito collections from Hallwood and Linda so far in 2015. Additionally, a dead bird from Hallwood and the town of Sutter were positive for WNV as well. We have had no human cases or positive sentinel chickens to date. Kimball encourages residents to wear long sleeves and pants if you have to be outdoors when mosquitoes are present. Peak biting activity is typically at dusk and dawn. Use a good insect repellent on exposed skin when outdoors and remember to always follow label directions. Kimball stated that the District will remain diligent and aggressive in its fight against WNV.
In an effort to minimize the spread of WNV in the Sutter-Yuba area, the District’s trained and certified technicians and contractors will continue ultra-low volume ground fogging and aerial spraying. Spray schedules and information on insecticides that are being used can be found on the District’s website at www.sutter-yubamvcd.org or by calling the District office at 674-5456 ext. 0 between the hours of 7 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday thru Friday. All insecticide applications are predicated on mosquito abundance, disease activity and favorable weather conditions.
Although these materials pose a low risk to human health, some people may prefer to avoid or minimize exposure by staying indoors, keeping their windows closed and turning off their window–mounted air conditioners, evaporative coolers and whole house fans when spraying is taking place in the immediate area.