In September, a non-native mosquito (Aedes aegypti) capable of carrying Yellow Fever was found at an Atherton residence located on Camino Por Los Arboles. Subsequently, Vector Control Technicians from the District personally visited every Atherton residence within a two-tenth-mile radius of the site of the positive identification for the Yellow Fever Mosquito. (Two-tenths of a mile is the extent of this species' flight range.)
Some properties were inspected for sources of mosquito breeding, while others were provided an information brochure with the District phone number. Since the properties are situated so far apart and many are inaccessible due to security gates, Atherton was not included in the C.E.R.T./ Menlo Park Fire District/Mosquito District cooperative campaign held in Menlo Park and certain surrounding areas on November 2, 2013. This event is depicted in the attached District report.
The mosquitoes, which potentially could carry Yellow Fever or Dengue Fever, that were captured in Atherton as well as in adjacent Menlo Park and County areas, were tested in the District lab and determined to be disease-free. Fortunately, a low-level population of these mosquitoes does not tend to transmit disease, therefore the current risk for people acquiring disease in this area is low. Nevertheless, the District will continue to provide surveillance throughout the winter with stepped-up procedures and vigilance as Spring approaches.
Any residents who experience mosquito bites or have related concerns are urged to call the District office at 650-344-8592 to arrange for a property inspection.
Samuel Lerner DVM
Trustee, Town of Atherton
Board President, SMCMVCD