Steve Mulligan, district manager for the Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District holds a container of culex mosquitoes in 2019. Photo by Donald A. Promnitz.

The California Department of Public Health has announced that nine residents in Fresno County have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

As of now, of the nine cases, three were asymptomatic cases detected through blood donations.

In addition to the nine human cases, 216 positive mosquito samples have also been collected.

“With confirmation of these cases and an increase in the number of mosquito collections testing positive for WNV, it is important that everyone take precautions to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites,” said Katherine Ramirez, science education coordinator with the Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District.

Neglected swimming pools, standing water and shallow water that evaporates prior to the hatching of eggs are the most common places for mosquitoes to breed.

The press release also urged residents to contact their local mosquito control district if standing water is present, or if mosquito problems arise, and are also urged to report neglected swimming pools or other hazardous, mosquito breeding areas.

The department encourages individuals to practice the “Three Ds”:

1. Deter – By applying mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535.
2.  
3. Dawn and Dusk – The times mosquitoes are most likely to bite. The department encourages individuals to wear proper clothing and keep repellent handy during these times. Tight fitting door and window screens are also recommended to deter mosquitoes.
4.  
5. Drain – Eliminating standing water on your property is another way to help reduce risk of mosquito infestation. Empty flower pots, buckets and other items may contain standing water. Contact the local mosquito control district to report stagnant water and poorly maintained swimming pools.

Residents of Fresno County can find their local mosquito control district at www.fresnocountymosquito.org.

More information on WNV can also be found at the CDPH website.