More West Nile virus infections found in dead birds

West Nile virus has been confirmed in two crows found dead in Concord last Monday (June 17). These are the first positive tests since April, the Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District said.

Additional infected dead birds were reported in Alameda, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, Contra Costa County said in a news release Friday.

Since 2005, 75 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus, and in 2006 two people died from the virus, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

“Now that it’s summer and temperatures are rising, the risk of West Nile virus is also increasing because the virus is more prevalent in mosquitoes when the outside temperature is above 55 degrees at night,” said Steve Schutz, the county’s science program director. “At this time of year, it is very important for Contra Costa County residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and to report dead birds because dead birds are often the first sign of West Nile virus in a particular location.”

Contra Costa County residents can report dead birds by calling 877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473) or online. County residents can also request a private property mosquito control service by calling 925-685-9301 or online.

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