San Mateo Mosquito Fogging Operation Touted as 'Success'

The following is a news release from the San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control District:

The San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District (SMCMVCD) fogging operations the nights of July 28 and July 30 successfully reduced mosquito populations in the treated area of the city of San Mateo. Mosquito traps set before and after treatment showed a reduction in the adult mosquito population of 77% after Monday night and 99% after Wednesday night.

Post-fogging mosquito samples collected in San Mateo were negative for West Nile Virus (WNV). No future foggings are planned at this time because the virus was not detected post-treatment.

Fogging to suppress West Nile Virus Mosquitoes of 550 acres in San Mateo was completed at approximately 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2014. Fogging of 700 acres in San Mateo was completed at approximately 1:30 a.m. Thursday, July 31.

Maps of the fogging locations can be found on the district website,www.smcmad.org.

Residents with questions can call the District at (650) 344-8592 Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Reports of dead birds are an early indication that the virus is circulating in the environment.

Residents are encouraged to help by reporting fresh carcasses of birds or tree squirrels to the West Nile virus hotline, online at www.westnile.ca.gov or by phone at 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473).

Physicians should be aware that residents in the fogging area may have come in contact with mosquitoes carrying WNV. If any of these residents come to the physician’s office with symptoms of WVN, they should be tested for the virus.

For assistance with a mosquito problem in San Mateo County, contact the District at (650) 344-8592.

For more information on West Nile Virus and other district services, visit us on the web at: www.smcmad.org.