A New Threat in Ashland!

Residents of south Ashland, brace yourselves! The notorious Aedes aegypti—infamous for spreading diseases like Zika and dengue—has been spotted in local neighborhoods for the first time.

Discovery Sparks Immediate Action

First detected in Talent last year, this disease-carrying mosquito has now made its presence known in the Clay Street Park area. The Jackson County Vector Control District wasted no time, activating traps and implementing door hangers to educate the community about this concerning find.

After just three days of trapping, 25 Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have been captured, indicating a growing local population.

Why You Should Care

Known by various names like Egyptian or yellow fever mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti are designed to target humans and are most dangerous due to their ability to transmit diseases globally. Though none of the collected samples have tested positive for disease yet, officials caution that vigilance is essential.

"They are responsible for a large proportion of mosquito-borne diseases worldwide," stated Andrew Partin, a vector ecologist.

Understanding the Mosquito's Behavior

Active during the day, these mosquitos are aggressive and often bite multiple individuals for a single meal, preferring exposed areas such as ankles and wrists.

Community Awareness is Key

Local resident Marsha MacCormack is doing her part by ensuring her yard is free of standing water to starve these pests. She's been active in spreading the word about preventive measures among her neighbors.

Door hangers have been distributed, urging residents to eliminate stagnant water around their properties and report any Aedes sightings. Help is just a call away at 541-826-2199.

How to Protect Yourself

To minimize risks, residents should take immediate action. Here’s what you can do to safeguard your home and loved ones from these invasive mosquitoes:

• Drain or dump any standing water around your home.

• Remove items that collect water, like old tires, buckets, and toys.

• Repair any leaky outdoor faucets.

• Keep rain gutters clear.

• Use mosquito repellent, especially those containing DEET or picaridin when outdoors.

• Consider sleeping under a mosquito net if you're in an area lacking screens.

A Growing Problem

Originally found in California, the Aedes aegypti mosquito is spreading rapidly across the United States, having been sighted frequently since 2022 in the Redding area.

As they establish themselves in Oregon, experts from health departments and universities stress the importance of community cooperation in managing and preventing potential outbreaks.

Stay Informed!

The good news? So far, the immediate risk of disease in the Ashland area remains low.

However, public awareness and proactive measures are crucial in keeping these invasive insects at bay. Remember, your action today can prevent a health crisis tomorrow!