Kern County officials are warning about the continued dangers of mosquitos as the fall season approaches.
"They will breed during the winter time," said Anna Winter, foreman for the Kern Mosquito and Vector Control District. Winter says peak mosquito season in the county runs until about the end of October, but it's important to be aware year-round.
Despite summer coming to a close in just over two weeks, there's still much to do for the district. On Thursday, they'll be doing an aerial mosquito spray west of Allen Road. During the spray, the Kern River Parkway bike path will be closed from roughly 5:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
They will then be doing aerial photography sometime in the next few weeks to check on dirty pools. If one is spotted, they'll drop by or leave a notice if the homeowner isn't home. If the problem isn't fixed, Winter says code enforcement will be forced to address the issue.
Part of the problem, Winter says, is that some don't take the issue seriously.
"Many of them do not take it seriously, then you have the attitude 'it's not going to happen to me,' then they're not thinking about the neighbors who may have medical problems," Winter said.
According to Kern County Public Health, people who are most susceptible to the severe effects of the West Nile Virus include the elderly, those with compromised immune systems and people suffering from diabetes. They also say that just because summer is ending doesn't mean it's time to get complacent.
"As the temperatures start to decline, we get out more," said Michelle Corson, public information officer for Kern County Public Health. "The kids are playing, we get outside more, this is the time you really need to be aware because we will be out more and mosquito season is still among us."
Both recommended using bug spray and taking care of any standing water on your property. Mosquito Control says they will take care of your pool if you think there could be mosquitos breeding inside. They can be reached at 661-589-2744. The service does not carry an additional cost and is included in property taxes.
