The San Bernardino County Mosquito and Vector Control Program (MVCP) is urging residents to step up mosquito prevention efforts. In addition to being a nuisance, mosquitoes can spread dangerous diseases like dengue, West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis, Western Equine encephalitis, and Zika.

Recent detections of locally acquired dengue cases in nearby Los Angeles and San Diego counties have heightened concerns. “The Aedes mosquito presents a new threat to San Bernardino County residents,” said Health Officer Dr. Michael Sequeira. Aedes mosquitoes, also known as "ankle-biters," are particularly aggressive during the day and thrive in small water sources like plant saucers, lawn drains, and recycling bins.

Prevention Tips

To protect against mosquitoes and prevent breeding, residents should:

• Drain or dump standing water in birdbaths, old tires, buckets, and clogged gutters.
• Repair pools, ponds, or spas and add mosquito fish to ponds.
• Ensure window and door screens are in good condition.
• Wear loose, light-colored clothing outdoors and use EPA-approved insect repellents with DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Residents are encouraged to report green pools and request mosquito inspections by contacting MVCP at (800) 442-2283 or visiting ehs.sbcounty.gov for more information.