Take one look at the thermostat and you know it's summer. And summer is prime time for mosquitoes because the warmer weather allows young mosquitoes to develop more quickly into biting adults.
This year, California is experiencing a very active year for West Nile virus infected mosquitoes and dead birds statewide; however, Contra Costa County is actually experiencing a less active year -- at least so far.
Through late July, two mosquito samples, five dead birds and two chickens have all tested positive for West Nile virus in Contra Costa County. Year to date and over the previous five years, there has been an average of four mosquito samples, nine birds, and two chickens that have tested positive for West Nile virus within the county.
Statewide, the number of mosquito samples and dead birds that have tested positive for West Nile virus appear to be on course to exceed last year's totals as they are already ahead of the five-year averages.
Why is Contra Costa County faring better than other parts of the state, at least so far? One likely reason is our county is geographically diverse and the cooler western areas of the county are not as favorable to mosquitoes or virus transmission. That means most of our West Nile activity is concentrated in other areas of the county.
According to the District's Manager of Scientific Programs Steve Schutz, Ph.D. - "We are seeing a typical summer pattern of high West Nile virus activity in the eastern portion of the county during periods of warmer weather. And due to the warm weather, risk levels are up District-wide. We still need
residents to do their part: eliminate standing water to prevent mosquitoes and report dead birds so that we can conduct testing and identify areas where we can focus our mosquito control efforts."
Report dead birds to the state hotline:
online or by calling 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-3473). The reports help the District's surveillance program and help protect public health. Don't forget to wear repellent. Technically, we're just half way through summer though mosquitoes most likely won't let you forget it.
