CONCORD, CALIFORNIA – The Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) reports the first dead bird of the year has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in Contra Costa County.
The dead bird, an American crow, was picked up in an area of Concord on April 9, 2024. The first WNV-positive dead bird from Contra Costa County comes after infected dead birds have also been reported from Alameda, San Mateo, and Santa Clara Counties.
“It is early in the season for the first detection of West Nile virus in Contra Costa County,” said Steve Schutz, Ph.D., Scientific Program Manager. “The last time the first dead bird of the year tested positive this early in the season was more than 10 years ago. With such early evidence of West Nile virus, it’s more important than ever for residents to take steps to reduce the risk of mosquitoes and mosquito bites.”
To reduce the risk of mosquitoes and WNV, the District recommends Contra Costa County residents dump and scrub. At least once per week, inspect front and back yards and dump out any amount of rain or sprinkler water that’s collected in any sort of container including, but not limited to, toys, tools, equipment, pet bowls, and trash, even something as small as a water bottle lid. Then scrub the inside of each container to remove mosquito eggs that may be stuck to the container. Also, make sure window screens properly fit openings without gaps, and there are no rips or tears.
If, after dumping and scrubbing, the resident still experiences mosquito issues on the property, Contra Costa County residents can contact the District to request mosquito service.
To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, the District recommends residents use EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients:
- DEET
- Picaridin
- The repellent version of Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
- IR3535
Always follow the instructions on the label when using insect repellent. and report dead birds because dead birds are often the first sign of WNV in a particular location.
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 residential property by calling (925) 685-9301 or online.