ELK GROVE — For the first time, Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District has reported finding Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Citrus Heights.
The detection was made after District staff conducted door-to-door surveillance in the area earlier Thursday.
The mosquitoes commonly transmit yellow fever as well as dengue fever, chikungunya, Zika fever, Mayaro viruses, and other diseases.
The mosquito can be recognized by white markings on its legs and a marking in the form of a lyre on the upper surface of its thorax. This mosquito originated in Africa but is now found in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions throughout the world.
It has previously been discovered in Southern California and was feared by state health officials to be spreading north.
Immature mosquitoes were found in a watering can of a residence and also detected in a street storm drain.
“Now that we have found these invasive mosquitoes in our area, the goal is to control and limit their expansion,” said Gary Goodman, district manager.
Aedes aegypti is considered an aggressive day-biting mosquito that prefers to feed on humans.
In response to this new detection, the District is conducting ground treatments in neighborhoods along the northern Sacramento and Placer County line scheduled for early Friday morning.
“We are mobilizing and responding quickly in order to protect the residents we serve,” stated Goodman.
In addition, extensive surveillance efforts will continue by placing traps specifically meant to collect and detect these specific mosquitoes. Field staff will continue with door to door inspections looking for breeding sources and conducting appropriate treatments as necessary in residential areas.
Earlier Thursday, neighboring Placer Mosquito and Vector Control District announced the finding of these mosquitoes within their District area as well. Invasive mosquitoes have also been detected in Stockton, Modesto and Turlock previously this month.
Public cooperation is critical in detecting and controlling the spread of these mosquitoes, according to Goodman.
Residents experiencing mosquito bites during the day should report them immediately by calling 1-800-429-1022 or requesting service at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net Invasive mosquitoes lay their eggs in small back yard containers such as dishes under plants, tin cans, tires, bird baths, pet dishes or fountains. Residents are urged to inspect their yards daily and drain even very small amounts of water.