July 2, 2009

VISALIA, Calif. - The Delta Vector Control District received confirmation today that mosquitoes collected in the vicinity of Crawford and Nebraska in the City of Dinuba have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This is the second virus-positive collection in Tulare County this year. Visalia had a positive collection identified on June 12.

The District initiated adult mosquito control efforts earlier this week after trapping large numbers of mosquitoes in the area. Forty mosquito collections consisting of 2,000 (50ea.) mosquitoes were submitted to the UC Center for Vector-Borne Disease Laboratory on June 30. One of those collections confirmed positive for West Nile virus.

Additional efforts were initiated by the District to determine the source locations of the mosquito population, with several sites having been located and treated in and around the area on Wednesday and Thursday of this week.

Because residents will likely be outside near dusk and shortly after sundown celebrating Fourth of July activities this weekend, during the time these mosquitoes are most active, the District recommends wearing mosquito repellent containing Deet.

In response to the confirmation, the District will continue to intensify its efforts in the area, performing aerial surveillance this weekend in an effort to identify unmaintained swimming pools, a significant breeding place for mosquitoes. Additional mosquito surveillance, source identification activities, and/ or fogging operations are possible as we continue our effort to protect the public from West Nile virus.

Residents are urged to increase their awareness of potential breeding grounds around their property. Be on the lookout for homes that are unoccupied or in foreclosure as many have swimming pools or backyard ponds that are in an unmaintained condition.

It is recommended that citizens avoid being unnecessarily bitten, thereby reducing the opportunity for exposure to West Nile Virus.

· Use an effective mosquito repellent such as DEET. Always follow label instructions carefully.

· Dress in long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk or in areas where mosquitoes are active.

· Drain standing water that may produce mosquitoes.

· Door and window screens: Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

To learn if the District is spraying for adult mosquitoes in your area, please visit the District’s Web site at www.deltavcd.com. Adult mosquito spray notifications by email are also available by signing up on the Web site.

Delta Vector Control District is located at 1737 W. Houston Ave. in Visalia. Call the District (toll free) to report mosquito problems at (877) 732-8606, or visit their office between 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to get FREE mosquito fish for ornamental ponds or horse troughs.

Report all dead birds to the California Department of Public Health West Nile Virus and Dead Bird Hotline (877) 968-BIRD (2473) or online at www.westnile.ca.gov.

District personnel are available to respond to any mosquito concern you are experiencing by calling (559) 732-8606, toll free (877) 732-8606 or online at www.deltavcd.com.