CONCORD, CALIFORNIA - -
The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District confirmed today that one group of mosquitoes from Oakley and three dead birds have tested positive for West Nile virus. The birds were from Brentwood, Antioch, and Pleasant Hill.
"The mosquitoes and birds that have tested positive this week demonstrate West Nile virus does not end with Labor Day. Citizens should remain vigilant," says the District's Scientific Programs Manager Steve Schutz, Ph.D. "Dump out standing water. Use mosquito repellent. And report dead birds because they help us know where to look for West Nile virus."
District personnel are conducting extra surveillance and mosquito control in the areas where the virus activity was found.
The District urges the public to report dead birds to the state hotline: 1-877-968-2473. Birds are often the first sign of disease transmission. Even if the birds are not tested, the reports alone yield crucial information to protect public health.
Residents can 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.
