Posted on June 25, 2021

Three mosquito samples collected in the City of Firebaugh (2) and north of the City of Mendota (1) tested positive for West Nile virus this week. Residents are encouraged to take action to reduce the production of mosquitoes around their homes and protect themselves from mosquito bites. Please see the attached press release for additional details.

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes and exposed to mosquito-borne viruses including West Nile virus, residents are urged to take the following precautions: 

• Drain all sources of standing water around your home.  Remove unnecessary objects from around your home that can potentially hold water. 
• Report observed sources of standing water (i.e. unmaintained swimming pools) and mosquito activity to the Fresno Westside Mosquito Abatement District (559) 659-2437 or at www.fresnowestmosquito.com.. 
• Irrigation water on farms and other lands should not be allowed to stand for more than four days.  
• Report dead birds to 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473) or www.westnile.ca.gov. 
• Repair window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering buildings. 
• Wear long sleeves and pants if outdoors when mosquitoes are present. 
• Use a repellent containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin or IR3535, as recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Always read and follow the repellent label instructions.
• Avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk when Culex mosquitoes are most active.  
• Stock mosquitofish in domestic water features, such as backyard ponds and horse troughs. The District will stock mosquitofish, at no cost, in water sources where they are likely to be effective.