San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District’s (District) mosquito-borne disease surveillance program collected the first West Nile virus (WNV) infected mosquitoes in San Joaquin County. The mosquitoes were both located in Stockton, zip codes 95207 and 95219. “When the weather is consistently hot for days or weeks, mosquitoes are likely to have an extended breeding season. This sustained breeding period tends to result in mosquito populations that are larger in volume and more persistent. This factor, along with an accelerated life cycle and feeding activity, further increases the risk of West Nile Virus transmission," proclaimed Omar Khweiss, General Manager of San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District. Khweiss concluded, “Please follow the tips we prescribe because ‘It is initially on YOU (the public) to keep mosquitoes OFF!’”
On June 6, 2024, a hummingbird was the first bird to test WNV positive in San Joaquin County for 2024. The bird was the first sign of WNV activity in San Joaquin County this year. “With WNV detected in the bird and mosquito populations, it is imperative that people take all necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites,” said Aaron Devencenzi, Public Information Officer with the District. “With these warnings each year, it is easy for the public to become complacent, but the risk is there and increases with the hotter months ahead,” said Devencenzi.
The District will continue to provide surveillance of mosquito populations and tests for mosquito-borne diseases. Based on our scientific data, mosquito control will continue with a concentration in the areas of most concern. People must protect themselves from mosquito bites.
- Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property that can support mosquito development.
- According to label instructions, when outdoors, apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients, including DEET, Picaridin, the repellent form of oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Repellents prevent mosquitoes from biting.
- Avoid spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active, at dawn and dusk, especially for the first two hours after sunset.
- Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and other protective clothing when outdoors.
- Exclude mosquitoes from your home with tight-fitting screens on doors and windows.
- Contact your veterinarian for information on vaccinating equine against WNV.
- Report significant mosquito infestations and daytime biting mosquitoes to San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District at www.sjmosquito.org or (209) 982-4675, 1-800-300-4675.
- Report dead birds to 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or to www.westnile.ca.gov.
To learn more about San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector control activities, visit the District’s website at www.sjmosquito.org. To request District service, call (209) 982-4675, 1-800-300-4675, or visit www.sjmosquito.org.