Officials Warn of West Nile Virus Risk in Wilton and Elk Grove

Wilton residents should be especially cautious of mosquitoes, as many in that area have been found to be carrying West Nile Virus, according to the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District.

“The hot temperatures we had last week continue to amplify the virus in our mosquito and bird populations,” a press release quoted District Manager David Brown as saying. “Residents need to be aware and protect themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes because anyone can become infected.”

In Wilton and Elk Grove, 50 mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus, the press release states. The district said it has been using a truck-mounted rig to spray insecticide in the area, but may also conduct  once the weather improves.

The press release says the West Nile Virus has been found in 20 counties in the region; at this point last year, it had only been found in 14.

Residents are urged to use mosquito repellant at dawn and dusk, and to dump out standing water at their homes. Interested parties can sign up to be notified of mosquito spraying activity by entering their ZIP code at http://www.fightthebite.net/spray-notification/.

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