West Nile Virus Found in Local Bird

According to the Los Angeles County West Vector & Vector-Borne Disease Control District, a dead bird (America Crow) from the City of Calabasas has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The bird was found on Wednesday.

WNV is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they first feed on birds that carry the virus, and then bite a human or animal.

So far this year, there have been 47 separate zip codes in Los Angeles County that have recorded positive WNV results from either dead birds, trapped adult mosquitoes, or sentinel chicken flocks.

The Los Angeles County West Vector & Vector-Borne Disease Control District advises that residents can protect themselves from WNV by doing the following:

DEET - Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older.

DAWN AND DUSK - Mosquitoes that carry WNV bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear repellent at this time. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight- fitting screens to keep out mosquitoes. Repair or replace screens with tears or holes.

DRAIN - Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including flowerpots, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls.

Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.

If you have an ornamental pond, use mosquito fish. You can make arrangements to pick up free mosquito fish at the District or report mosquito problems by calling 310-915-7370.

The public is encouraged to report dead birds to help with West Nile virus surveillance and control efforts. Dead birds should be reported to the toll-free hotline at 877-WNV BIRD or visit on-line at: www.westnile.ca.gov.

For mosquito problems and to pick up mosquito fish, call 310-915-7370.

For questions on West Nile Virus, please contact Robert Saviskas or the Los Angeles County West Vector & Vector-Borne Disease Control District at 310-915-7370 ext. 223.

Additional information about the Los Angeles County West Vector & Vector-Borne Disease Control District and West Nile virus can be obtained by visit: www.lawestvector.org.