Sacramento Takes Action Against Invasive Mosquito Threats
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District is implementing innovative methods to combat the alarming rise of invasive mosquito populations in the Sacramento area. Luz Maria Robles of the district highlighted the public health risks these mosquitoes pose, stating, "Invasive mosquitoes transmit dangerous viruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.”
The situation has become critical in south Natomas, where mosquito collections surged from 99 in 2022 to a staggering 356. "This area has seen the highest growth in invasive mosquito populations," Robles noted. In response, the district is launching a pilot program aimed at curtailing their reproduction.
The initiative involves releasing sterile male mosquitoes that do not bite, which, when mated with wild females, results in non-hatchable eggs. Local resident Claudia Bow expressed her concern, saying, "I came home one day, saw the door tag and went, ‘Wow, they’re going to be treating it.’"
Weekly releases of these sterile males will commence on July 8 and continue for three months, supplemented by ongoing surveillance to track their efficacy. The district urges community involvement, encouraging residents to eliminate standing water in containers, buckets, and fountains to help reduce mosquito breeding sites.
As Sacramento grapples with the growing mosquito threat, residents are reminded of the importance of protective measures to reduce health risks associated with these invasive species. For further updates, residents can follow local news channels, download the district’s app, or subscribe to morning newsletters.
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