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Earlier this year the district found a WNV positive mosquito pool and two WNV positive crows recently in Pleasanton. West Nile is an endemic disease, meaning it is in our environment and occurs regularly, however Alameda County has had very few human cases within the past ten years. The best way to avoid West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites, by using preventative measures such as getting rid of standing water, and defensive measures like using mosquito repellent and wearing long, loose clothing. The public can help with WNV detection as well by calling in any dead birds that are found in the county.
Wild birds are the main source of WNV for mosquitoes. When certain birds become infected with WNV, they will have WNV in their blood. If a mosquito bites an infected bird and feeds on their blood, the mosquito can become infected and pass the virus on to people or other animals that they bite. Not all birds that are infected with WNV will get sick, but WNV can make some birds very sick and even cause death. Corvid birds (such as crows, jays, ravens, and magpies) are the most likely to get sick and die from WNV. Signs of WNV in birds may include uncoordinated movement, a lack of energy, and difficulty breathing. The Dead Bird hotline is 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) and you can also file a report on the website, https://westnile.ca.gov/report To learn more about West Nile virus and to see the latest numbers, you can find them on the California Department of Public Health’s website for West Nile virus.
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