Cotati, CA  September 2, 2022–The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District is reminding the public to protect themselves from mosquitoes and vector-borne disease during the extended holiday weekend. Labor Day weekend is a time when residents take advantage of the nice weather to engage in outdoor activities, but it’s also when the risk of mosquito-borne disease transmission is elevated.

“While West Nile virus has not yet been detected in Marin or Sonoma counties this year, it has been found in other parts of California,” stated Nizza Sequeira, Public Information Officer for the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District. “Wearing an insect repellent that has been tested and proven to protect you from disease carrying insects is your best defense against mosquitoes and the diseases they may be carrying,” stated Sequeira.

District officials, along with the California Department of Public Health, recommend using a repellent with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE).

Other ways residents can protect themselves from mosquitoes:

• Wear loose fitting, light-colored clothing with long sleeves and long pants
• Avoid spending time outdoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors
• Repair torn or damaged screens on tents or camping trailers

Visit www.msmosquito.org to report mosquito issues or to learn more about mosquitoes and vector-borne disease.

The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District's programs and services are funded through property taxes and benefit assessments and are provided to all residents in Marin and Sonoma counties at no additional charge.