CONCORD, CALIFORNIA - -
The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District confirmed today that two dead birds and two groups of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus. One dead bird was found in Blackhawk and one in Oakley. The groups of mosquitoes were from Holland Tract, near Knightsen, and in Byron. Fogging for adult mosquitoes will be conducted on the morning of Friday, August 5.
"The dead bird in Blackhawk is the first detection of West Nile virus in that area this year," said Steve Schutz, Ph.D., scientific program manager with the District.
"To date this year, we had only seen West Nile virus activity in east county, which is typical because the weather is hotter there. And while activity is increasing, it pales in comparison to other northern California areas that are experiencing, in some cases, unprecedented West Nile virus activity, such as in the San Joaquin and Sacramento areas."
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.
