CONCORD, CALIFORNIA - -
The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District confirmed today that two groups of mosquitoes and one dead bird tested positive for West Nile virus. The mosquitoes were trapped in and near Bethel Island and Discovery Bay. The dead bird was from Concord.
"The risk of getting West Nile virus is elevated when it's found in mosquitoes," said Steve Schutz, Ph.D., scientific program manager with the District.
"Mosquitoes can transmit the disease through a simple bite--and it only takes one. It's more important than ever to wear mosquito repellent and avoid mosquito bites."
Fogging for adult mosquitoes is scheduled for this evening, Thursday, September 1 in the Bethel Island / North East Oakley area.
Residents are urged to help reduce their risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines:
- Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes can't begin their lives without water.
- Defend yourself - use repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are present, typically dawn and dusk.
- Maintain neglected swimming pools . Just one can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and affect people up to five miles away.
- Report dead birds to the state hotline: 1-877-968-2473 or by visiting the California Department of Public Health's website. All reports are crucial.
Since 2005, 55 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 200
6, two people died from the disease. For a current list of West Nile virus activity this year, visit this page on the District's website.
For human case information, please contact Contra Costa Health Services at 888-959-9911.
Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District, an independent special district and public health agency, is located at 155 Mason Circle in Concord. Call the District to report mosquito problems at (925) 771-6195 or visit the office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to get FREE mosquitofish for ornamental ponds, horse troughs or neglected swimming pools.
