The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District says hot weather accelerates the mosquito life cycle -- meaning the bugs can go from an egg to an adult in as little as four to seven days.
The district says heat also amplifies the West Nile Virus, which is spread by mosquitoes -- meaning the risk of human transmission goes up. Vector Control says it's finding the virus in birds and mosquitoes largely in the Fruitridge and Florin area of South Sacramento. The District says it's an area of concern, though some virus activity has also been found in Citrus Heights and Isleton.
Vector Control has increased surveillance of birds and mosquitoes, and started ground fogging in some areas. There have been 15 mosquito samples and 8 dead birds that tested positive in Sacramento county for West Nile Virus so far this year. Yolo county has no activity.
In Placer County, Vector Control officials have just reported their first positive samples in Lincoln and Roseville. Experts recommend using repellent, draining standing water and avoiding being outdoors at dawn and dusk.
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