Rohnert Park Mosquito Tests Postive for West Nile Virus

The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito & Vector Control District announced today that another mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile virus. The sample was collected near Wilfred Avenue in Rohnert Park, in the same vicinity where the last group of mosquitoes tested positive on August 3rd.

"Immediately following the results of the positive mosquito sample, Vector Control Technicians were sent to check the area and found several sites producing mosquitoes," said Nizza Sequeira, Public Relations Director for the District. The areas found producing mosquitoes had not been there during previous visits and were treated accordingly. "Adult mosquito surveillance traps will be set, as usual, to monitor the abundance of mosquitoes and virus activity," stated Sequeira.  

With the warm weather continuing through the next week, District officials are concerned that the mosquito population may increase as well as virus activity. Residents in the area are urged to report potential mosquito production sites as well as mosquito problems to the District.  

It is extremely that anyone participating in outdoor activities take personal protection measures such as applying an effective mosquito repellent to exposed skin when outdoors, especially during dusk and dawn.

In an effort to educate the public about mosquitoes and vector-borne disease, the District is hosting a free event at their office in Cotati tomorrow. More information about the event can be found at www.msmosquito.com.

West Nile virus symptoms may include headache, fever, body aches, vomiting, nausea, swollen lymph glands and skin rash on the chest, stomach and back.

Approximately 80% of people who become infected with WNv will not show any symptoms; approximately 20% of infected individuals, however will develop West Nile fever.

Less than 1% of those individuals may develop a more severe form of illness with symptoms such as high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, paralysis and in extreme cases death. While there is no cure for WNv, it is preventable. 

Residents can help reduce the threat of WNv in the following ways:

• Eliminate standing water in rain barrels, old tires, buckets, kiddie pools or any other item that can hold water for more than a week.
• Report mosquito problems, neglected swimming pools, or any area that could be producing mosquitoes.
• Stock backyard ponds or other permanent water features with mosquitofish. The fish are free and can be delivered or simply picked up at the District office.
• Report dead birds to the West Nile virus hotline at 1-877-968-2473.
• Wear mosquito repellent when outdoors during dusk and dawn. Use a repellent containing one of the following active ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.

For more information or to report mosquito problems contact the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District at 1.800.231.3236 or visit www.msmosquito.com. Report dead birds to the West Nile virus Hotline at 1-877-968-2473 or online at  www.westnile.ca.gov.

Info: Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District.

The MSMVCD is an independent, special district committed to protecting public health from mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases. All programs and services are funded through property taxes and are provided to all residents of Marin and Sonoma counties. For more information about us please visit our website at www.msmosquito.com  or call 1-800-231-3236.