YUBA COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Sutter-Yuba Mosquito and Vector Control District has detected the first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Yuba County this year.

One mosquito sample collected on June 25 in the east Marysville area tested positive for West Nile. Thus far this year, the district has had no detections of West Nile virus in dead birds, sentinel chicken flocks or humans.

But hot daytime temperatures are hastening mosquito production, with traps showing an increase of this West Nile virus vector for this time of year, according to the Sutter-Yuba Mosquito & Vector Control District. The district’s surveillance system continues to be in full operation and mosquito control efforts are being instituted in areas where detections are made. 

The Sutter-Yuba Mosquito and Vector Control District reminds the public that prevention of mosquito bites is the best way to protect against West Nile virus and other mosquito borne viruses at home and when traveling. Taking simple steps to prevent mosquito bites are the best ways to keep you and your family healthy.

Remembering the four “D” s is an easy way to help prevent mosquito bites, according to the district:

D – DEET – apply mosquito repellants containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 when mosquitoes are active or biting. These are the EPA-approved mosquito repellents recommended to prevent bites https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents.  Always follow package instructions for appropriate age and directions for use.

D – Dawn and Dusk – limit outdoor activity at dawn and dusk when the mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus are most active. Wear long sleeves and pants if you must be outdoors when mosquitoes are present.

D – Doors and windows – keep screens in good repair and keep mosquitoes out by making sure that the screens on your doors and windows are not broken or torn.

D – Drain all standing water around the outside of your home, including buckets, jar lids, tires and flowerpot trays. Report green swimming pools to the district.

Residents are asked to report dead birds to the California Department of Public Health website at https://westnile.ca.gov/ or by phone at 877-968-2473.

You can obtain additional information by visiting the Sutter-Yuba Mosquito & Vector Control District website at https://sutter-yubamvcd.org/. 

For questions regarding this detection, contact the district office at 530-674-5456, extension 0, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.