Travel-related dengue cases in Solano County; help prevent the transmission of vector-borne diseases

November 15, 2024

SOLANO COUNTY – The Solano County Department of Health and Social Services, Public Health Division is investigating several travel-related dengue virus cases in Solano County. This is occurring at the same time as the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District (SCMAD) has made a new detection of invasive mosquitos in Vacaville that can transmit the dengue virus.  

Nearly all dengue cases reported in California have been associated with exposure through travel to an area affected by dengue outside of California. As of November 1, 2024, the California Department of Public Health reports a total of 344 dengue virus infections, 13 of which have been locally acquired infections. Solano has no reported cases of locally acquired dengue virus infections. Three travel-associated infections have been identified as confirmed or probable in 2024, with two more under investigation.  

“Don’t bring home disease this holiday season,” said Cameron Kaiser, MD, MPH, FAAFP, Solano Public Health Deputy Health Officer. “Mosquitos like these can transmit dengue as well as also other potentially serious diseases like yellow fever, and biting an infected person is how it starts. Clean up standing water and junk around your home, and if you’re traveling to regions where these illnesses are more common, take some easy precautions to avoid getting bitten and bringing diseases back.”  

Dengue virus is spread by Aedes mosquitos. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is not native to California and typically lives in tropical, subtropical and in some temperate climates. This invasive mosquito was first detected in Solano County in 2023 in Dixon. They are small, dark mosquitos with white markings and banded legs. Because these mosquitos live near and prefer to feed on people, they are more likely to spread these viruses than other types of mosquitos. This mosquito is most active during the day and it often bites indoors, but it is also active around dusk and dawn.   

“We are continuing to conduct our surveillance throughout Solano County,” says Miguel Cardenas, SCMAD Manager. “We will protect residents from the potential risks that come with it and do everything possible to eliminate this invasive mosquito.”  

STEPS TO HELP REDUCE THE RISK
Early detection provides the best chance of eradication. Residents should eliminate all sources of standing water on their property to control the species, including turning over flowerpots, eliminating spare tires and treating swimming pools and drainage ditches, which are common breeding sources of the Aedes aegypti mosquito.  

Dengue is common in many tropical areas of the world where Aedes mosquitos thrive, which includes Latin American and the Caribbean, American Samoa, South Asia / Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. People who travel to these areas should be aware of dengue and know that it spreads from mosquitos in these areas. Consider dressing appropriately to reduce the risk of bites on your arms and legs and using mosquito repellant in those regions, and stay current with recommended vaccinations. Some vaccinations that may not be routine in the United States are recommended for visitors to certain countries. 

For additional tips visit https://www.SolanoMosquito.com/Prevention. Any unmaintained swimming pools and stagnant water should be reported by calling the SCMAD at (707) 437-1116.