"The risk of exposure to West Nile virus will continue until the overnight low temperatures start dropping below 55 degrees. It is important that residents of Contra Costa County continue to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites,'" said the District's Scientific Program Manager Steve Schutz, Ph.D.

The District recommends residents use an insect repellent that is EPA-registered and includes one of the four most effective active ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or the repellent version of Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.

In addition to dumping out standing water and scrubbing the inside of the container to remove mosquito eggs, the District also advises Contra Costa County residents to:

  • Make sure door and window screens are in good working condition
  • Contact the District to request mosquito service
  • Report dead birds to the California West Nile Virus Dead Bird Call Center

As Contra Costa County residents take steps to reduce the risk of WNV, District employees will be conducting surveillance and control as needed in the areas where the dead birds and mosquitoes were found.

Contra Costa County residents can report dead birds by phone at (877) WNV-BIRD (968-2473) or online. County residents can also request mosquito service for their residential properties by calling (925) 685-9301 or online.

Since 2005, 75 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 2006, two people died from the disease. For human case information, please visit the California Department of Public Health Vector-Borne Disease Section online.
 
Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District, an independent special district and public health agency, is located at 155 Mason Circle in Concord.