CONTRA COSTA MOSQUITO & VECTOR CONTROL INVESTIGATES WEST NILE VIRUS HOT SPOTS AND ADDRESSES NUISANCE MOSQUITOES IN OAKLEY
MORE BIRDS AND MOSQUITOES TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS; DISTRICT RESPONDS TO FIRST HUMAN WEST NILE VIRUS CASE
There are three areas in Contra Costa County where District technicians are focusing their mosquito control efforts at this time. In Concord, technicians are investigating the source of mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile virus. The Culex tarsalis, also known as the Western encephalitis mosquito generally breeds in artificial containers such as neglected swimming pools and backyard sources. The second area of concern is in East county where technicians are investigating possible mosquito sources near where the woman who contracted West Nile virus resides. The third area of concern and investigation is in Oakley, in the area north of Highway 4, where there are reports of day-biting mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are considered nuisance mosquitoes and are not known to transmit West Nile virus or any other mosquito-borne virus.
"Our technicians are determined to locate these mosquito sources," said Deborah Bass, public affairs manager for the District. "and we need the public's help. Please report neglected swimming pools and dump backyard water sources where mosquitoes breed. And don't forget the mosquito repellent. It's so simple, but so important." Residents are urged to continue to report dead birds to the West Nile Virus state hotline: 1-877-968-2473. Reports may also be made online at www.westnile.ca.gov Dead bird reports are an important tool for West Nile virus detection, even if the bird is not picked up and tested. Lack of dead bird reports decreases the District's ability to detect higher risk locations.
The District makes every effort to notify residents about West Nile virus activity and adult mosquito spraying events. People wishing to be notified about adult mosquito spraying in residential areas have several options. They may visit the District's website and opt to receive the maps and notifications automatically by email.There is also an option to receive media releases and the Mosquito Bytes newsletter. They can also view all of these communications directly on the District's website. Spray schedules are also available by calling the District at (925) 771-6195 and listening to a recorded message.
Residents are also urged to help reduce their risk by following these guidelines:
- Don't breed mosquitoes on your property. Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes can't begin their life without water.
- Defend yourself against mosquitoes using repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
- Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are present, typically Dawn and Dusk.
- Report neglected swimming pools by calling 925-771-6195 or visiting www.ContraCostaMosquito.com Anonymous calls accepted. Just one neglected pool can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and affect people up to five miles away.
Since 2005, 37 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 2006, two people died from the disease. Studies have shown that the majority of cases are undiagnosed.
Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District, an independent special district and public health agency, is located at 155 Mason Circle in Concord. Call the District to report mosquito problems at (925) 771-6195 or visit their office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to get FREE mosquitofish for ornamental ponds, horse troughs or neglected swimming pools.
For information concerning human West Nile virus symptoms, prevention, or testing, please call the Contra Costa Health Services department at (888) 959-9911. For information concerning West Nile virus and horses, please call the California Department of Food and Agriculture Animal Health Branch at (916) 654-1447.
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