The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District announced that further evidence of West Nile virus activity has been detected in Sacramento County as two more mosquito samples and seven birds tested positive.

Most of the mosquito samples and birds have been collected in south Sacramento County in the communities of Wilton and Elk Grove, but evidence of West Nile also has been found in Sacramento and Citrus Heights, the district reported.

“The cooler weather we have had this year probably explains our relatively low numbers of infected mosquito samples and birds compared to previous years, but residents still need to be aware that West Nile virus is a threat,” district manager David Brown said in a news release.

“Hot temperatures can quickly amplify the virus. We urge residents to take these early warning signs seriously and do everything they can to protect themselves from bites and ensure they are not breeding mosquitoes on their own property.”

The increased West Nile virus presence comes at a time when many residents are enjoying outdoor activities in the evening, exactly the time when mosquitoes are most active.

“Please be cautious and protect yourselves from bites by wearing a good insect repellent,” Brown said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using an insect repellent that contains the active ingredients DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or the plant-based oil of lemon eucalyptus.

In response to the recent findings, the district has increased its surveillance and started ground fogging around areas where positive mosquitoes and birds have been found. Ground fogging already has been conducted around Wilton and C-Bar-C Park in Citrus Heights.

For updated information about any treatments planned, visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net. Residents also may subscribe to receive email notifications for mosquito treatments by ZIP code. To sign up, click on “Spray Notifications” on the website.

So far in Sacramento County this year, 15 dead birds and 10 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus. None have been registered in Yolo County in 2011.

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