Dead Bird in Contra Costa County Tests Positive for West Nile Virus

A dead bird found in Pleasant Hill has tested positive for West Nile virus, Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District officials announced Thursday.

A resident spotted the dead bird near the corner of Chilpancingo Parkway and Camelback Road, district officials said.

Birds carry the virus and pass it on to mosquitoes when the mosquito bites them. Mosquitoes can then pass on the virus to humans through a mosquito bite, according to district officials.

"We are thankful that a resident reported the bird, which gives us the opportunity to understand where virus activity may be taking place in the county," district spokeswoman Deborah Bass said in a statement.

"Our goal is always to treat mosquitoes in their larvae form, in the water, before they have a chance to become flying adults, get the disease from birds, and then infect people. Reports such as these help us toward that goal," Bass said.

So far this year, two groups of mosquitoes, three birds and six chickens have tested positive for the virus in the district.

Since 2004, 54 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 2006, two people died from the disease, according to the district.

One way to prevent mosquitoes from breeding is to dump or drain any standing water. Additionally, neglected pools, filled with algae and bacteria, can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and affect people up to five miles away, according to district officials.

To report a neglected pool or a mosquito problem, residents can call the district at (925) 771-6195. To report dead birds, residents can call the state hotline at (877) 968-2473.