An invasive mosquito that has the potential to spread several dangerous diseases has been found recently in Boulder Creek, and the Santa Cruz County Mosquito & Vector Control department is “initiating a full response” to get a bead on the extent of the problem and to tamp down its spread.
It is the second confirmed finding of Aedes aegypti in Santa Cruz County following a 2022 identification in South County.
The pest has the potential to transmit dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever, Vector Control stated in a press release.
In 2024, local dengue cases were identified in Los Angeles and San Diego counties. Aedes aegypti is an aggressive, day-biting mosquito.
They are about a quarter-inch in size and black and white. The Boulder Creek finding has been confirmed by the California Department of Public Health.
After the Watsonville finding, officials were able to prevent the spread, and the mosquito has not been detected within that area since first being identified.
Current surveillance efforts include deploying specialized traps to specifically target Aedes aegypti adults, and water sampling for mosquito larvae surrounding the downtown Boulder Creek area.
Additionally, staff are conducting door-to-door inspections of properties for standing water and other mosquito breeding areas.
The public can play a role in helping to control the spread of Aedes aegypti.
Recent rain and warm temperatures create ideal conditions for mosquito development. Aedes aegypti lays its eggs just above the water line in small containers and vessels that hold water, such as dishes under potted plants, bird baths and feeders, ornamental fountains, tin cans, children’s toys, or discarded tires.
Residents should dump out even the smallest amount of standing water on their properties.
Since eggs stick to surfaces, it is important to clean and scrub bird baths and pet watering dishes weekly and dump excess water from the overflow trays under potted plants.
Santa Cruz County Mosquito & Vector Control reminds people to do the following to reduce the chances of being bitten by mosquitoes:
• Apply repellents containing EPA registered ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 to exposed skin and/or clothing.
• Wear long sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and shoes when mosquitoes are most active.
• Be sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
Residents experiencing mosquito bites during the day should report them immediately to Santa Cruz County Mosquito & Vector Control online at mvc.santacruzcountyca.gov via “Submit a Service Request” or by calling 454.2590.
For information, visit Santa Cruz County Mosquito & Vector Control at bit.ly/42pqnFJ or bit.ly/46H9tVy or California Department of Public Health at bit.ly/46H9tVy
