Officials say West Nile virus activity is surging in Sacramento County, and the region is now leading the state.
"People certainly need to be aware, and just know that there are really easy steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones," said Samantha Mott with Sacramento County Department of Health Services. "Children and the elderly are more susceptible should they contract West Nile virus to having more severe symptoms."
ABC10 learned one person in Sacramento County tested positive for the virus.
"However, we believe that this individual was actually infected in 2017," said Mott. "So, while it does show a case for 2018 in Sacramento County, we do not believe that any individuals have been infected with West Nile virus in 2018."
Where exactly? According to the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District, they have identified activity in Land Park in a trap behind the Sacramento Zoo and in Elk Grove area. They say last week alone, 15 dead birds tested positive for West Nile virus — 14 of those birds were in Sacramento County.
"I think people just need to be aware that that risk is out there," said Mott. "And that there are steps that they can take to protect themselves."
Communities across America fight mosquitoes in the most efficient way possible, by spraying large areas with insecticide. The most common chemicals are called pyrethroids. The EPA says they poses no a risk to people. But they are sprayed at night because they can be harmful to birds and other insects.
"The summer season is just getting started," said Mott. "We are going to go into hotter months. Mosquitoes activity is going to increase and so taking the time now...making sure your family has a good mosquito repellant...making sure that your doors and windows are in good working order are steps that they can take to protect themselves as we continue into hotter months."
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