Aggressive Non-Native Mosquito Found In Pleasanton

PLEASANTON, CA — The Alameda County Mosquito Abatement said that it discovered an Aedes aegypti mosquito larva in a trap placed in the Alameda County Fairgrounds.

The mosquito is not native to California, and can spread diseases such as dengue, Zika, and yellow fever. It is an aggressive mosquito that bites throughout the day, often near the ankles. They lay their eggs just above the waterline in small, artificial water sources like buckets, pet dishes, fountains, bird baths, plant saucers, and old tires.

The larvae was collected from a trap on July 30, and the district responded by inspecting and treating all known mosquito breeding sites in the area, and conducting intensive followup trapping, the district said in a news release.

Residents of Pleasanton and Alameda County are urged to inspect their properties for standing water, a breeding habitat for mosquitos. The mosquito can grow from an egg to an adult in areas as small as a bottle cap of water. An adult mosquito is slightly less than a quarter-inch long, with black and white stripes on its back and legs. They are known to be highly aggressive and active during daylight hours.

To protect yourself from bites:

• Apply insect repellents containing EPA-registred ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long-sleeve shirts, pants, socks, and shoes when mosquitos are most active
• Ensure window and door screens are in good condition.
• Report mosquitos biting during the day to the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District at 510-783-7744 or atwww.mosquitoes.org.

If you develop symptoms like a fever, headache, or joint or muscle pain, contact your doctor.