The following message was released by the Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District highlighting how mosquito season is not over and people should act to prevent mosquito bites.
Here is the message:
Just because it’s fall, it does not mean mosquito season is over because mosquitoes, and
West Nile virus (WNV) in particular, thrive in warm temperatures. And unlike other areas of the country where temperatures turn cool as soon as fall arrives, Contra Costa County remains warm enough.
The District’s Scientific Program Director Steve Schutz, Ph.D. warns now is not the time to become complacent when it comes to preventing mosquito bites.
“It is very important that all Contra Costa County residents take this virus seriously. Take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites now and well into the fall because the risk of virus transmission can continue until average overnight temperatures drop below 55 degrees for a week or longer.”
So, act now to reduce the risk of West Nile virus (WNV) by avoiding mosquito bites.
Personally:
- Avoid areas where mosquitoes are present, typically dawn and dusk.
- Defend yourself
- Use repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Wear long pants and long sleeves to reduce the exposed skin where a mosquito could potentially bite.
On Your Property:
- Dump out standing water. Mosquitoes develop from egg to adult in water.
- Chlorinate and filter swimming pools because even one neglected swimming pool can produce 1 million mosquitoes that can affect people miles away.
- Report dead birds to the California WNV Call Center at (877) WNV-BIRD (968-2473) or online.
Contact the District to request mosquito service if you find mosquitoes on your property.
