CONCORD, CALIFORNIA - - The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District confirmed today that a group of mosquitoes from Pittsburg and one dead bird from Danville have tested positive for West Nile virus. Fogging for adult mosquitoes is scheduled for Thursday evening in Pittsburg.

"Mosquitoes are enjoying their last hurrah before they hibernate for the season and are aggressively seeking a blood meal," said Sheila Currier, program supervisor for the District. "Our surveillance tells us that the source of the mosquitoes is not where we are fogging, but it's where the mosquitoes are going. These mosquitoes can travel up to five miles from their source and have come to rest in areas that are consistently moist and lush. Everyone should wear mosquito repellent when outdoors, no matter where you are in the county."

West Nile virus activity is listed on the District's website as well as fogging schedules.

 Residents are urged to help reduce their risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines: 

• Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes can't begin their lives without water.
• Defend yourself against mosquitoes by 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. 
• Report dead birds to the state hotline: 1-877-968-2473. All reports are crucial, even if the bird does not meet criteria for testing.

Since 2005, 54 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 are grossly underreported. For 2015, a total of seven groups of mosquitoes, 11 birds,16 chickens and one horse 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.