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The Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District announced it will be conducting adult mosquito control measures in eastern Livermore on Tuesday (Sept. 5) in light of increased West Nile virus activity.
District personnel will apply Evergreen ULV (5-25) Ground Public Health Insecticide by a truck mounted ultra-low volume sprayer in a limited treatment area. Patterson Pass Road is the northern boundary; South Vasco Road is the eastern boundary; East Avenue is the southern boundary and North Mines Road is the western boundary.
The scheduled treatment is dependent upon weather conditions, officials said.
Livermore has had a number of West Nile virus positive dead birds and two groups of positive mosquitoes in the treatment area, according to a statement from the district.
"We expect a quick and effective response by our team will suppress the mosquito population and lower the risk of residents contracting West Nile virus," said General Manager Ryan Clausnitzer.
Due to the heavy rain from the winter – along with scattered showers in spring and summer – the numbers of West Nile virus cases in birds, mosquitoes and humans are higher this year than last year.
California has had 354 dead birds, 2,797 mosquito samples, 102 sentinel chickens, and 55 humans test positive for West Nile virus as of Wednesday (Aug. 30) and five people in the state have died from it so far this year.
There is no cure for West Nile virus, which is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Approximately one in five people who are infected with West Nile virus will develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting or rash, district officials said.
Less than 1% will develop a serious neurological illness such as encephalitis or meningitis. Adults over 50 years old and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of serious complications. Anyone who develops symptoms should seek medical care immediately.
Horses are also very susceptible to West Nile virus, however vaccines are available. Horse owners are urged to contact their veterinarians about timely vaccinations.
District officials said effective mosquito control requires residents to do their part.
During the spraying hours planned for Tuesday night in Livermore, residents are encouraged to stay indoors. The insecticide will break down in sunlight, according to the district.
Residents are also advised to be proactive in general by eliminating sources of water where mosquitoes can breed such as plants, outdoor containers and unmaintained swimming pools.
People should also protect themselves from mosquito bites by wearing long loose clothing, repairing or replacing window screens in their homes and wearing insect repellent in mosquito heavy areas.
More information about mosquitoes and West Nile virus is available at www.mosquitoes.org. For information concerning West Nile virus symptoms, prevention or testing, contact the Alameda County Public Health Department at 510-267-8001.
If you come across a dead bird, report it by calling 877-WNV-BIRD or online at www.westnile.ca.gov.
