Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week Is Here
Apr 11, 2025 12:25PM ● By Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District News Release
ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Spring is in the air and so are mosquitoes! The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announces California Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week, April 13-19.
This week kicks off the District’s public information and education campaign to keep residents aware about the health risks associated with mosquitoes. “Mosquito Awareness Week is an excellent opportunity for our communities to learn more about mosquitoes and how they can protect themselves from diseases such as West Nile virus,” said District Manager Gary Goodman.
“This year temperatures are already on the rise and conditions are perfect for mosquitoes to thrive,” added Goodman. The District urges residents to do their part in preventing mosquitoes around their home.
“Warm weather is great for spending time in your yard, remember to drain any water from flowerpots, bird baths, tires, dog dishes and other small sources where water can accumulate and breed mosquitoes. Reducing mosquitoes now, will go a long way later in the season,” emphasized Goodman.
This week kicks off the District’s public information and education campaign to keep residents aware about the health risks associated with mosquitoes. “Mosquito Awareness Week is an excellent opportunity for our communities to learn more about mosquitoes and how they can protect themselves from diseases such as West Nile virus,” said District Manager Gary Goodman.
“This year temperatures are already on the rise and conditions are perfect for mosquitoes to thrive,” added Goodman. The District urges residents to do their part in preventing mosquitoes around their home.
“Warm weather is great for spending time in your yard, remember to drain any water from flowerpots, bird baths, tires, dog dishes and other small sources where water can accumulate and breed mosquitoes. Reducing mosquitoes now, will go a long way later in the season,” emphasized Goodman.
Mosquitoes continue to pose serious public health risks as they can transmit debilitating diseases such as West Nile virus. Last year in California, there were 129 confirmed human cases including 12 fatalities.
Also of concern are the invasive mosquito species Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus which continue to spread to different areas within District boundaries. These mosquitoes pose a significant health threat because they are capable of transmitting dangerous viruses including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya. Last year in California there were 18 cases of locally acquired dengue infections.
Also of concern are the invasive mosquito species Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus which continue to spread to different areas within District boundaries. These mosquitoes pose a significant health threat because they are capable of transmitting dangerous viruses including Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya. Last year in California there were 18 cases of locally acquired dengue infections.
WHO: The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District
WHAT: Activities for Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week
WHEN: Monday, April 14 - Official kick off of the District’s public information and education campaign and participation in the Zamora Elementary Science Fair
Wednesday, April 16 - Annual Repellent Distribution to organizations that serve the homeless
Saturday, April 19 - Educational booth at West Sacramento Earth Day Celebration
