BUTTE COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) detected an invasive (non-native) species of mosquito on Tuesday, August 2, 2021. The Aedes aegypti, commonly known as the yellow fever mosquito, was found in Gridley in the area of Highway 99 and East Gridley Road. The California Department of Public Health confirmed the invasive species detection. The District has identified this invasive mosquito in Chico, Thermalito, Oroville, and now Gridley. 

“The District is working to evaluate the extent of the infestation and we plan to do everything we can to eradicate this mosquito and to protect our residents from the potential disease risk of these invasive mosquitoes,” said Matt Ball, District Manager. “Our goal is to control and eliminate this species of mosquito so that it does not become established in our community.”

The District utilizes a science-based, data-driven approach to mosquito control. This Integrated Vector Management approach will include immature surveillance and control that includes door to door inspections, as well as adult surveillance and control, which will include ultra-low volume spraying, barrier treatments and a variety of live mosquito trapping. “The District is enhancing and expanding the District’s comprehensive surveillance system to track this mosquito” said Amanda Bradford, the District’s Entomologist. 

The Aedes aegypti mosquito was detected earlier this year in Butte County.  For the Chico and Oroville detections, this

is the 2nd consecutive year in a row this species has been discovered. This is the first time this mosquito has been found in Thermalito and now Gridley. Aedes aegypti have the potential to transmit viruses such as chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, and Zika, that are not known to be transmitted by Butte County’s native mosquitoes.

The public plays a critical role in helping to control the spread of this mosquito population. “Aedes aegypti love to breed in small water-holding containers and prefer being in and around our homes.  A breeding ground for this mosquito can

be as small as a water bottle cap. Eliminating all standing water regardless of size is essential to effective control,” says Matt Ball.

Prevent Aedes aegypti development in your yard: (1) Inspect your yard for standing water sources and drain water that may have collected under potted plants, in bird baths, discarded tires, and any other items that could collect water; (2) Check your rain gutters and lawn drains to make sure they aren’t holding water and debris; (3) Check and clean any new containers that you bring home that may contain water. Aedes aegypti eggs can remain viable under dry conditions for months.

As with all mosquito issues, native and non-native, the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District staff urges residents to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites by implementing the 7 Ds of protection:

(1) Drain any standing water that may produce mosquitoes, this includes flowerpots, old tires, and buckets. Some species of mosquitoes can lay their eggs in very small sources of water, like a bottle cap; (2) Defend yourself and your home by using an effective insect repellent and making sure screens on doors and windows are in good condition; (3, 4) Dusk or Dawn, avoid outside activities; (5) Dress in long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are active; (6) Door and window screens should be in good working condition and free of holes and tears. This will prevent mosquitoes from entering your home; (7) District personnel are available to address any mosquito problem you may be experiencing, to report water that may be breeding mosquitoes, and to answer any questions you may have.

For information about invasive mosquitoes in California

https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Aedes-aegypti-and-Aedes-albopictus- mosquitoes.aspx

For more information about the District’s services, invasive mosquitoes, West Nile virus, or new emerging mosquito-borne diseases, contact the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District at (530) 533-6038 or visit www.ButteMosquito.com