News Release
For Immediate Release   -    September 22, 2016
Contact: Deborah Bass, Public Affairs Manager

Direct:  925.771.6112
Cell:  925.260.4670
Email:  dbass@contracostamosquito.com


THREE DEAD BIRDS AND ONE GROUP OF MOSQUITOES TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
Mosquito season still active despite fall's official arrival

CONCORD, CALIFORNIA - -  The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District confirmed today that three dead birds and one group of mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus. One dead bird was found in each of the cities of Concord, Martinez, and Walnut Creek. The mosquitoes were trapped in Holland Tract near Knightsen. 

"The mosquito season is not quite over and we still have some hot days ahead," said the District's Scientific Program Manager Steve Schutz, Ph.D. "Fall is officially here, but the mosquitoes haven't gotten that message yet. People still need to protect themselves until the cooler weather arrives and the mosquitoes go to sleep for the winter." 

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, 56 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.
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Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control
925-685-9301
http://www.contracostamosquito.com