West Nile Virus Confirmed In Walnut Creek

WALNUT CREEK, CA — Lab tests have confirmed West Nile virus in two dead birds found in Walnut Creek, the first time the deadly mosquito-borne illness has been detected in Contra Costa County this year.

"Dead bird reports help us pinpoint virus activity in the county," Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District scientific programs manager Steve Schutz said in a statement. "Right now, we have very few reports. We really need the public to report dead birds to the state hotline so we can understand where else in the county the mosquitoes may be transmitting the virus and where we can focus our control efforts."

Report dead birds to the California Department of Public Health by calling (877) 968-2473 or by visiting the state agency's website at www.cdph.ca.gov.

The county district looks for mosquitoes in catch basins, neglected swimming pools and other water sources that may serve as breeding havens for the insects. Mosquitoes in Discovery Bay have been found to be carriers, so fogging will be done there.

What can you do? The district encourages residents to reduce their risk of contracting the disease by dumping standing water, using mosquito repellent, avoiding being outside when mosquitoes are out -- typically dawn and dusk -- and taking care of their swimming pools.

Bay City News contributed to this report; Image via Shutterstock