CONCORD, CA – The Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) confirms a group of mosquitoes collected from a trap in Knightsen are the first mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in Contra Costa County this year.
“This first group of West Nile virus-infected mosquitoes shows up as the temperatures are on the rise, so the District expects to see more virus activity in the coming weeks. The District urges Contra Costa County residents to take steps to protect themselves from West Nile virus and mosquito bites,” said Steve Schutz, Ph.D., Scientific Program Manager.
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.
To reduce the risk of mosquitoes, the District recommends Contra Costa County residents dump out any amount of standing water at least once every week. And if, after dumping out all of the water on the property, the resident still experiences mosquito issues, Contra Costa County residents should contact the District to request mosquito service.
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.
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