FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2012
RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS CONTINUES
–Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes this Labor Day Weekend
Elk Grove, Calif.— Labor Day is the last holiday of the summer, however mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus continues for all area residents. The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District reminds the public to protect themselves from mosquitoes, especially as many will be enjoying fun outdoor activities for the long holiday weekend. “We’re still seeing high numbers of positive mosquito samples and dead birds throughout Sacramento and Yolo counties” said David Brown, District Manager. “This means that that the risk of becoming infected is still real and residents need to protect themselves with an effective repellent when they are outdoors when mosquitoes are active” said Brown.
Currently Sacramento County has reported 3 human cases of West Nile virus. Throughout California, activity continues to increase and currently there are 44 human cases and 2 deaths. Nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the 1590 reported human cases of West Nile virus are the most reported to date since the mosquito transmitted disease was first discovered in the United States in 1999.
For current information about any treatments planned within Sacramento or Yolo Counties please visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents may also subscribe to mailing lists to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by zip code.
2012 West Nile virus activity update:
Sacramento County: 3 human cases, 429 dead birds, 407 mosquito samples,
17 sentinel animals, 1 horse have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.
Yolo County: 66 dead birds, 112 mosquito samples, 1 horse, 2 sentinel animals have tested positive for West Nile virus to date
Contact: Luz Maria Rodriguez, Public Information Officer
Office: 916.405.2082 | Cell: 916.416.6337
E-mail: lrodriguez@FIGHTtheBITE.net
