What is a Mosquito Control District?

A Mosquito Control District is a local government agency responsible for managing and reducing mosquito populations within a specific area. Their primary goal is to minimize the risk of mosquito-borne diseases and alleviate nuisances caused by mosquitoes.

What are the main objectives of a Mosquito Control District?

The main objectives include:

●       Monitoring mosquito populations and disease prevalence to protect District residents.

●       Implementing effective control measures to reduce mosquito populations.

●       Educating the community about mosquito-borne diseases and prevention methods.

How can I tell if I’m in your District?

You can view a map of the District here or call our office during work hours at 661-725-3114.

Do you charge for services? 

No. We are a Special District funded by property tax assesments and our services are available to all our constituents within our covered area. No resident will ever be charged for any of the District’s services.

How does the Mosquito Control District control mosquito populations?

Mosquito control methods may include:

●       Larviciding: Treating mosquito breeding sites such as stagnant water sources with larvicides to kill mosquito larvae.

●       Adulticiding: Spraying insecticides to kill adult mosquitoes.

●       Source reduction: Eliminating or modifying mosquito breeding habitats to prevent mosquito reproduction.

●       Biological control: Introducing natural predators such as mosquitofish to control mosquito populations.

●       Public education: Providing information on mosquito biology, disease prevention, and personal protection measures.

Is mosquito control safe for humans, pets, and the environment?

Yes, mosquito control programs prioritize the safety of humans, pets, and the environment. The products and methods used are EPA registered and applied by trained professionals following strict guidelines to minimize any potential risks.

How can I report mosquito problems in my area?

Residents can report mosquito-related concerns, such as green swimming pools or high mosquito activity to the District through our Report a Mosquito problem page on the District website, or through phone at 661-725-3114. Prompt reporting helps prioritize control efforts and target problem areas effectively.

What can individuals do to prevent mosquitoes around their homes?

Some preventive measures include:

●       Eliminating standing water sources where mosquitoes breed.

●       Using mosquito repellents and PPE such as long sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity times.

●       Installing screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.

How can I get involved or support mosquito control efforts in my community?

Residents can support mosquito control efforts by:

●       Calling the District and reporting potential mosquito breeding sources.

●       Educating neighbors and community members about mosquito prevention methods.

●       Advocating for funding and resources to strengthen mosquito control programs in the community.

Does the District conduct surveillance for mosquito-borne diseases?

Yes, the District actively surveys for mosquito-borne diseases such as West Nile Virus, St. Louis Encephalitis virus, and Western Equine Encephalitis virus . Monitoring disease activity helps guide control efforts and alerts public health authorities to potential outbreaks.

How do people get West Nile virus?

Most often, WNV is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Viruses that are spread by mosquitoes are called “arboviruses.” Mosquitoes are WNV carriers (“vectors”) that become infected when they feed on infected birds. Infected mosquitoes can then spread WNV to humans and other animals when they bite.

All donated blood is checked for WNV before being used. The risk of getting WNV through blood transfusions and organ transplants is very small, and should not prevent people who need surgery from having it. Transmission during pregnancy from mother to baby or transmission to an infant via breast-feeding is extremely rare.

West Nile virus is not spread through casual contact such as touching or kissing a person with the virus, or by breathing in the virus.

How soon do infected people get sick?

People typically develop symptoms from three to 14 days after they are bitten by an infected mosquito.

What are the symptoms of West Nile virus?

WNV affects the central nervous system. However, symptoms may vary. Approximately 80 percent of people (about four out of 5) who are infected with WNV will not show any symptoms.

Up to 20 percent (about one in 5) of the people who become infected will display symptoms which can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back.

Less than 1 percent (one in 150 people) of individuals infected with WNV will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent. West Nile virus infection can be fatal.

Who is at greatest risk of getting severely ill from West Nile virus?

People over the age of 50 and individuals with compromised immune systems have a higher chance of getting sick and are more likely to develop serious symptoms when infected with WNV. Being outside, especially at dawn or at dusk, increases your risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito. Take precautions (wear repellent) to avoid mosquito bites if you spend a lot of time outside.

How is West Nile virus infection treated?

There is no specific treatment for WNV infection. In cases with milder symptoms, people experience fever and aches that pass on their own. In more severe cases, people may need to go to the hospital where they can receive supportive care including intravenous fluids, help with breathing, and nursing care.

If you have had West Nile virus, are you immune to further infections?

It is thought that once a person has recovered from WNV, they are immune for life to future infections with WNV. This immunity may decrease over time or with health conditions that compromise the immune system.

Can animals get sick from West Nile virus?

An infected mosquito can bite any animal, but not all animals will become sick. The disease most often affects birds but may occasionally cause disease in other animals. Wild birds serve as the main source of virus for mosquitoes. Infection has been reported in more than 225 bird species. Although many birds that are infected with WNV will not appear ill, WNV infection can cause serious illness and death in some birds. The most severe illnesses are seen among the corvid birds, which include crows, scrub jays, ravens and magpies. In Kern County, mockingbirds, scrub jays, crows, house finches and house sparrows have tested positive for WNV in previous years.

Like people, most horses bitten by infected mosquitoes will not become sick with WNV. However, of those that do, clinical signs may include stumbling, circling, hind leg weakness, inability to stand, muscle tremors and death. Vaccine is available to prevent West Nile virus in horses and horse-owners should consult with a veterinarian about WNV vaccine and other vaccines that protect against other mosquito-borne viruses, such as western equine encephalitis.

For more information on West Nile virus and horses, please visit the California Department of Food and Agriculture website at www.cdfa.ca.org

Dogs and cats can be exposed to WNV in the same way as humans. However, these animals are very resistant to WNV and rarely become ill. Concerned pet owners should consult with a veterinarian.