During the current pandemic, there are daily reports on the new things scientists are learning about the virus (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19 disease because COVID-19 is so new.
Here in Contra Costa County, there is already a virus that is neither new nor unknown and it can have life-changing repercussions. West Nile virus (WNV), which is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito, was first discovered in the United States in 1999. By 2003 it had spread to California. Contra Costa County found the first evidence of WNV and 11 residents were diagnosed with the virus in 2005. Today, WNV is an annual occurrence.
Right now, we are all learning to wear masks and practice social distancing to reduce the risk of COVID-19, but in the 15 years since WNV first arrived, Contra Costa County residents have also learned how to reduce the risk of that virus.
Ways to Reduce the Risk of WNV:
- Dump out any amount of standing water to prevent mosquitoes.
- Wear repellent when outside at times when mosquitoes are present.
- Report dead birds.
Contra Costa County residents can help the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District reduce the risk of WNV by reporting dead birds because they are often the first sign of WNV each year. Many birds are the hosts of WNV. When a mosquito bites an infected bird, that mosquito can become infected. Then, the infected mosquito could bite a person and spread the virus.
When you find a dead bird on your property, please report the bird to the California WNV and Dead Bird Call Center by phone at (877) WNV-BIRD (968-2473) or online. The District will be notified of the dead bird and if we are able, we will come out and pick up the bird.
It’s important to know, not all dead birds will be picked up, but all dead bird reports are critically important to help the District locate potential areas at risk of WNV.
One More Note on Mosquitoes and Viruses
The District has received questions asking if mosquitoes could transmit the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 disease. While mosquitoes can transmit dangerous viruses, including WNV, mosquitoes cannot transmit every virus and there is no data that mosquitoes have transmitted this novel coronavirus or any past coronaviruses.
1 comment
Lmao well my cousin sits in his backyard shooting birds all damn day; do you want those?
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