Two birds that tested positive for West Nile virus were found in the East Bay, the Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District announced Tuesday.
A pair of American crows, one in Pleasant Hill and the other in Knightsen, turned up dead, prompting the District to release the following statement:
“The risk of West Nile virus is elevated due to several factors," said Deborah Bass, public affairs manager for the District. "Those include hot weather, the presence of infected dead birds, as well as high populations of mosquitoes in the area."
The virus is carried by mosquitoes, which thrive in standing water. Neglected swimming pools can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and residents are encouraged to report any neglected pools -- or other potential mosquito sources -- by calling 925-771-6195 or at www.contracostamosquito.com.
There have been 39 reported cases of West Nile virus in Contra Costa County since 2005, and two reported deaths -- both in 2006. Symptoms include fever, headache, body aches and swollen lymph glands. About 1 in 150 people infected with the virus will experience severe symptoms and the majority of the cases go undiagnosed and under reported.
