West Nile Virus Mosquito Control Planned For Orange County

ANAHEIM, CA — The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District is reporting an increase of West Nile Virus activity in the Cities of Anaheim and Buena Park.

"Recent laboratory test results indicate a significant number of positive WNV mosquito samples in the area between N. Dale Ave and Euclid, south of the 91 freeway to Ball Road," the vector control district reported.

Investigating dead birds in the area, the OCMVCD determined that a near-epidemic presence of WNV positive mosquito samples increases the risk of residents getting bit by a mosquito capable of transmitting the virus.

"On September 10, 11 and 12, the OCMVCD will conduct ultra-low volume truck-mounted applications to treat for infected adult mosquitoes between the hours of 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. in a 4.5 square mile area containing approximately 8,883 properties in Anaheim and Buena Park," Orange County Mosquito Vector Control spokesperson said.

OCMVCD personnel will be applying DeltaGard, a water-based public health mosquito control product (pesticide).

The product is applied according to the label rate (less than 1 fluid oz. per acre) and is not harmful to people or pets, even if they are present during the application.

The application will also not harm the finishes on cars or homes.

Residents do not have to turn off air-conditioning units or close windows, during the application. To check the spraying schedule and if homes are in the treatment area, visit: www.ocvector.org

If weather conditions are not favorable, or if there are operational delays, the treatment may be postponed or delayed. OCMVCD will continue to track mosquito samples and may resume treatments in future weeks between the hours of 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. in areas determined to be high-risk for WNV transmission to residents.

Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District will notify residents in the application areas by treatment notification posters, eAlerts, social media and news media.

The public is also encouraged to visit the OCMVCD’s website (ocvector.org) for the latest information on WNV, mosquito control spraying, and other vector related information.

Residents should take the following precautions to help reduce the chances of getting bit by mosquitoes:

• Dump and drain any containers filled with water at least once a week
• Clean and scrub bird baths and pet water bowls weekly
• Dump water from potted plant saucers
• Do not transport or share plant stems rooted in water
• Drill a hole or puncture containers to eliminate standing water

To prevent mosquito bites, the District offers the following tips:

• Wear repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Close all unscreened doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home or space; repair broken or damaged screens
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and opt for lighter-colored clothing

Vector Control is a shared responsibility.

Orange County residents are urged to inspect their property for possible mosquito breeding sources and to educate their neighbors to help keep their neighborhoods mosquito-free.

Visit ocvector.org learn more about what you can do to prevent mosquito breeding in and around your property.