An Aedes aegypti adult male mosquito rests on human skin. Photo courtesy of the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District

SACRAMENTO AREA, CA (MPG) – The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District announced June 26 that it will officially launch the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Pilot Program in South Natomas in July.

This innovative, science-based program using sterile male mosquitoes aims to reduce populations of Aedes aegypti, the invasive mosquito species. Aedes aegypti has been rapidly spreading in our region and poses a public health threat for diseases such as dengue, Zika and chikungunya.  

Beginning July 8, Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District staff will conduct weekly releases of non-biting male mosquitoes that carry Wolbachia, a naturally occurring bacteria. When these sterile males mate with wild female mosquitoes, the resulting eggs do not hatch. Over time, this reduces the local mosquito population.

"We're proud to lead this effort and bring new, effective mosquito control strategies to our community," said Gary Goodman, district manager for Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control. "By targeting Aedes aegypti at the source, this program helps us reduce the threat of mosquito transmitted diseases and protect residents.”

The project will continue through November in a designated 100-acre zone of South Natomas.

Residents in the pilot area might notice an increase in mosquito activity during the release period but no action is required on their part and they can go about their day as usual. District staff will be present in the neighborhood each week to release the sterile males and set mosquito traps to evaluate the program’s effectiveness.

Residents are encouraged to continue protecting themselves by using insect repellent when spending time outdoors and eliminating any standing water around their homes to prevent mosquito breeding.

The sterile insect technique method is being used by other mosquito control districts across California and is gaining attention nationwide as a promising tool to address the growing spread of invasive mosquitoes. Travel-related cases of dengue are detected in our region every year and the presence of Aedes aegypti increases the risk for locally acquired infections.

Last year, 18 dengue cases were reported in Southern California. This emphasizes the importance of using innovative approaches such as Sterile Insect Technique to reduce mosquito populations and help prevent the spread of disease.

For more information about the Sterile Insect Technique Pilot Program in South Natomas or to request a free home service inspection, visit www.fightthebite.net or call 800-429-1022.