PRESS RELEASE – March 18, 2020

In accordance with CDC and public health authority recommendations to protect both Napa County residents and District staff, the Napa County Mosquito Abatement District will be closing its facilities to the public.  The District will continue to operate essential programs to protect the health and comfort of County residents by reducing mosquito and ground nesting yellowjacket populations.

Vector control personnel will continue to manage mosquito and yellowjacket populations in public areas, such as parks, marshes, channels, ditches, temporary rainwater areas, storm detention basins, street gutters and drains.  Community events, presentations, and in-classroom programs will be suspended until further notice.

It is important to remember that COVID-19 (corona virus) is not transmitted through the bite of a mosquito.  However, other viruses, such as West Nile, can be.  Therefore, residents are requested to be proactive in the coming weeks to eliminate standing water around their property, especially after a rain event.  The following steps will help reduce the threat of mosquito-transmitted diseases and mosquito breeding:

• Eliminate standing water in any container that holds water for more than one week (e.g. clogged rain gutters, buckets, sumps, drains, rain water barrels, tarps, boats).
• Make sure swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
• Change the water in birdbaths, pet dishes, and other small containers weekly.
• Wear EPA-recommended insect repellent when outdoors where mosquitoes may be present.

For more information on steps to prevent mosquito breeding or for help with yellowjackets, visit the District’s website at www.napamosquito.org or call 707-553-9610.

The District will continue to assess its operations daily and monitor public health guidelines.  The public’s support and understanding during this fluid time of challenge greatly is appreciated.

Wesley A. Maffei, Manager, Napa County Mosquito Abatement District