Our laboratory continues to test suitable dead birds for West Nile virus (WNV). So far this year we have tested 78 dead birds and two came back positive, one on September 27, 2021 in Pleasanton and the second on September 30th, 2021 in Livermore.

If you come across a dead bird please report it online at www.westnile.ca.gov. The mosquitoes most effective at spreading WNV are common in the fall months. Remember, mosquitoes can breed all year long in the Bay Area so preventative activities such as removing standing water, adding mosquito fish to ponds, troughs, and neglected swimming pools reduce our risk of West Nile virus. Now is a great time to check for standing water in your yard and drain or cover anything that will hold water longer than 4 days. Visit our backyard checklist to see common places where mosquitoes produce.