Officials are reporting mosquitoes from Oakley and Discovery Bays as well as two dead birds from Discovery Bay have tested positive for West Nile virus.
This is the fifth group of mosquitoes and the third dead bird from Contra Costa County so far this year to test positive for the virus, the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District reported.
Officials are recommending Contra Costa County residents to take steps now to avoid mosquito bites.
Mosquitoes that can transmit West Nile virus are active at dawn and dusk.
Here are some steps to avoid mosquito bites:
- Stay indoors in the evening when mosquitoes can be present
- Wear mosquito repellent when outside
- Repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are most effective and are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
In addition to staying indoors and wearing repellent when outdoors, the District encourages residents to reduce the risk of contracting West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases by:
- Dumping or draining standing water to prevent mosquitoes
Officials are asking anyone to report dead birds to the state hotline at 1-877-968-2473.
Birds are often the first sign of disease transmission in a particular area.
Ravens, jays, crows, and magpies can be susceptible to the virus, and may die if infected.
Officials say even if the birds are not tested, the reports yield crucial information to protect public health.
For a list of Contra Costa County’s 2018 West Nile virus activity and locations, click here.
Since 2005, 63 Contra Costa County residents have been diagnosed with West Nile virus.
In 2006, two people died from the disease.
For current human case information, contact Contra Costa Health Services at 888-959-9911.
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