Zika-spreading, invasive mosquito detected in Santa Clara County

(KRON) — A “dangerous and invasive mosquito” — known for spreading illnesses like Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever — has been discovered in Santa Clara County, according to officials.

The day-biting Aedes aegypti is not native to California, coming from tropical and subtropical areas. The mosquito is also distinguished by black and white stripes on its legs and body. It was recently spotted near Robbia and Chopin drives, in an area within Sunnyvale and Santa Clara, according to the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety.

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Officials confirmed that the aforementioned diseases commonly carried by the Aedes aegypti “aren’t in the county right now,” but added “finding this mosquito in a new area is a serious health concern because it means the mosquito is surviving and reproducing in our community, increasing the risk of these diseases.”

Residents are reminded to do the following to help keep the troublesome insect away and prevent their eggs from hatching:

• Prevent water from collecting in containers like plant pots, saucers, barrels, bins, buckets, and old tires.
• Scrub and clean outdoor items around your home that collect water.
• Cover outdoor trash cans, toys, and recycle bins. Keep items that can hold water dry, away from rain, and out of the reach of sprinklers.
• Make sure rain barrels, cisterns, and irrigation drains are properly sealed to keep mosquitoes out.
• Keep rain gutters free of debris.
• Fix leaky water faucets and broken sprinkler heads and avoid overwatering lawns and plants.
• Make sure windows and door screens are in good condition, with no holes or tears, and fit tightly.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertSCC, Santa Clara County’s emergency alert system, to get notified about mosquito detections.