Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control has confirmed the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes near downtown Boulder Creek, marking the second confirmed case in the county, after a 2022 detection in South County.
This aggressive, day-biting mosquito measures about 1/4-inch and is black and white. Although not native to California, Aedes aegypti can transmit diseases, such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika and yellow fever. In 2024, dengue cases were reported in Los Angeles and San Diego counties.
Vector Control is actively investigating the extent of the infestation and working to prevent its spread by inspecting potential breeding sites. They are deploying specialized traps targeting adult mosquitoes, sampling water for larvae and conducting door-to-door inspections for standing water—common breeding grounds like discarded tires, bird baths, potted plant trays and water containers.
Residents can help control the spread by eliminating standing water on their properties, including dumping out small amounts, cleaning bird baths and emptying pet dishes regularly. To protect themselves, residents should apply EPA-registered repellents, wear long sleeves and pants during peak activity times, and ensure window and door screens are in good repair.
Anyone experiencing symptoms like fever, headache or joint pain after visiting areas with mosquito-borne viruses should contact their doctor and stay indoors. Residents are encouraged to report mosquito bites or breeding sites to Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control via its online portal at mvc.santacruzcountyca.gov under “Submit a Service Request” or by calling 831-454-2590.
