By Robert Haugh

Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus have been detected in portions of Santa Clara.

The Santa Clara County Vector Control District will conduct an adult mosquito-control treatment Tuesday night, Aug. 4 (tonight) to reduce the risk of the virus spreading to people.

The treatment will cover small sections of ZIP codes 95050 and 95051 in Santa Clara and 95117, 95126 and 95128 in San Jose.

Spraying is scheduled to begin at approximately 10 p.m. and should last no more than four hours.

Truck-mounted equipment will release a fine mist designed to kill adult mosquitoes that may carry West Nile virus. The County conducts the treatments at night, when the mosquitoes that spread the virus are most active.

Residents do not need to leave their homes during the treatment.

Those who want to limit their exposure can close their windows and remain indoors while spraying is underway. The County says all pesticides used in its mosquito-control program are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency.

The treatment will not necessarily cover the entirety of each listed ZIP code. Residents should check the County’s online treatment map and enter their address to determine whether their home is inside the treatment area.

West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause serious illness, particularly among older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

Residents can help control the mosquito population by dumping and draining standing water at least once a week. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in buckets, flowerpot saucers, fountains, swimming pools and other containers holding water.

The County also recommends using an EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wearing long sleeves and pants and limiting outdoor activity around dawn and dusk can also reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Dead birds can be reported by calling 877-WNV-BIRD. Green or neglected swimming pools and other standing-water problems can be reported through the Vector Control District’s website.

Treatment plans may change because of weather or other conditions. Updated information is available from the Santa Clara County Vector Control District or by calling (408) 282-3114.