CONCORD, CA – The Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) reports two more dead birds and two more groups of trapped mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in Contra Costa County. One dead bird is an American crow from San Ramon and the other is a California scrub jay from Concord. The mosquitoes were trapped in Pittsburg and Oakley.
There have been five dead birds and five groups of trapped mosquitoes that have tested positive for WNV so far in 2023.
“While we are seeing more virus activity in East Contra Costa County right now, the risk of West Nile virus is not necessarily restricted to that area. Dead birds from Central Contra Costa County have also tested positive for the virus and as warm temperatures continue, we expect West Nile virus activity to continue. To reduce the risk of West Nile virus, it should be a priority for Contra Costa County residents to protect themselves from mosquitoes and mosquito bites,” said the District’s Scientific Program Manager Steve Schutz, Ph.D.
WNV can be transmitted to birds, other animals, and people through a single mosquito bite. To reduce the risk of mosquitoes and mosquito bites:
- Wear an EPA-registered insect repellent that includes one of the four most effective active ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or the repellent version of Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
- Dump out standing water and scrub the inside of the container to remove mosquito eggs
- Make sure door and window screens are in good working condition
- Contact the District to request mosquito service
- Report dead birds to the California West Nile Virus Dead Bird Call Center
As Contra Costa County residents take steps to reduce the risk of WNV, District employees will be conducting surveillance and control as needed in the areas where the dead birds and mosquitoes were found.
Contra Costa County residents can report dead birds by phone at (877) WNV-BIRD (968-2473) or online. County residents can also request mosquito service for their residential properties by calling (925) 685-9301 or online.
Since 2005, 75 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 2006, two people died from the disease. For human case information, please visit the California Department of Public Health Vector-Borne Disease Section online.
Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District, an independent special district and public health agency, is located at 155 Mason Circle in Concord.
Previous Stories:
- Aug 13: More Mosquitoes Test Positive For West Nile Virus in Contra Costa County
- Aug 5: West Nile Virus Activity Increases in Contra Costa County
- July 21: First West Nile Virus Positive Dead Bird of 2023 in Contra Costa County
- July 15: West Nile Virus Returns to Contra Costa County
- June 30: First Mosquitos of 2022 Test Positive for West Nile Virus in Contra Costa County
