CONCORD, CALIFORNIA - - The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District (District) announced today that the first groups of mosquitoes have tested positive for West Nile virus in the 2013 season. Three different groups of mosquitoes tested positive for the virus and were trapped near Bixler Road and Point of Timber Road in Discovery Bay.

"Once the mosquitoes get the virus from birds, they can transmit it to people," said Deborah Bass, public affairs manager for the District.  "It only takes one bite."

The District will be fogging for adult mosquitoes in Discovery Bay the evening of Wednesday, July 3 , weather permitting. Details can be found here.

The District asks all residents to be vigilant  and avoid mosquitoes by wearing repellent when mosquitoes are present. Dump or drain any standing water to prevent mosquitoes from having a place to lay their eggs, and  report dead birds. This is important because they are often the first sign of West Nile virus in a particular location. Reporting  neglected swimming pools is also very important because one neglected swimming pool can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes that can affect people up to five miles away. The District accepts anonymous reports of water sources where mosquitoes may be developing.

Since 2005, 42 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 2006, two people died from the disease. Recent studies have shown that the majority of cases are not diagnosed and grossly under reported. For 2013, a total of 3 groups of mosquitoes and 1 dead bird have tested positive for the virus.  

Visit the District's website or click on these links for  current West Nile virus activity  or to  receive automatic emails for when the District fogs for adult mosquitoes.

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.