San Joaquin Co.: West Nile Virus-Infected Mosquitoes Discovered In Stockton

Bay City News

West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes have been discovered in Stockton, the San Joaquin County Mosquito and Vector Control District announced Thursday.

The District said its mosquito-borne disease surveillance program collected the mosquitoes in the 95207 and 95219 zip codes.

Omar Khweiss, district manager of San Joaquin County Mosquito & Vector Control District, said when the weather is consistently hot for days or even weeks, mosquitoes likely extend their breeding season, which results in populations that are larger in volume and more persistent.

"This factor, along with an accelerated life cycle and feeding activity, further increases the risk of West Nile Virus transmission," Khweiss said in a statement.

Tips for avoiding mosquito bites included eliminating all sources of standing water on people's property that can support mosquito development, applying insect repellent containing EPA registered active ingredients, and avoiding spending time outside when mosquitoes are most active.

People were also advised by the district to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and other protective clothing when outdoors and excluding mosquitoes from homes with tight-fitting screens on doors and windows.

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