Nine birds have tested positive so far this year and since West Nile is established in the county more positive tests are expected.
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Birds, usually crows, contract the virus when they’re bitten by infected mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are tested at Austin’s lab for the Department of State Health Services.
Health officials say a recent mosquito sample tested positive for West Nile Virus. It is the county’s third confirmed case of the infection for this year’s season.
Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood: Mosquitoes can develop in any water stagnant for more than three days.
While West Nile is a disease that primarily affects birds, authorities say that it is potentially risky to humans, horses and other animals. If you choose to use insect repellents, use Environmental Protection Agency-registered repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol.
The district asks residents to report “fresh carcasses” of birds or tree squirrels to the West Nile virus hotline at westnile.ca.gov or by phone at 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473).
Initial symptoms of West Nile Virus include fever, headache, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches and weakness and rash, officials said.
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The best way to prevent West Nile disease, or any other mosquito-borne illness, such as Zika virus, is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around the home and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
