District responds with scheduled spray over rice fields.

ROSEVILLE, Calif. – Two additional mosquito samples tested positive for the West Nile virus in the rice-growing region of western Placer County.

“It is not unusual for us to have positive samples out in the agricultural areas at this point in the season.” stated Joel Buettner, General Manager of the Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District. “We are responding as we normally would when addressing mosquito issues in this part of the county.”

The typical District strategies employed in agricultural areas are to control mosquito larvae populations on a regular basis and implement adult mosquito control measures as needed. Because of the WNV positive samples in this area, the District has scheduled an aerial spray for the evening of July 31 in the following areas:

  • Rice fields west of Roseville to Locust Road, north of Baseline Road to Sunset Blvd West.
  • Narrow corridor of rice fields in Sheridan, north of Wise Road, between North Dowd Road and Placer Road.

The District will also be conducting mosquito larva control the morning of July 31st in the same areas.

Since several factors affect spraying activities, such as weather and wind conditions, the District encourages Placer residents to check the District website at www.placermosquito.org for any changes to the spraying schedule.

The Placer Mosquito and Vector Control advises the public to implement the 3 D’s of protection:

  • Drain any standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
  • Defend yourself and your home by using an effective insect repellent and dressing protectively when outside, and making sure screens on doors and windows are in good condition.
  • Contact the District for any additional help controlling mosquitoes around your home.

For more information, residents of Placer County may contact:
Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District
(888) 768-2343 or visit www.placermosquito.org

2010 West Nile virus activity update:
Level 2–Placer County: 1 dead bird, O sentinel chickens, 5 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile Virus to date.

Contact: Ada Barros, Public Information Officer (916) 380-5480.