FIVE NEW BIRDS TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS

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July 9, 2009

FIVE NEW BIRDS TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS

–Virus Activity Continues Throughout Sacramento and Yolo County

Elk Grove, Calif. — The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District received confirmation that five new birds tested positive for West Nile virus. Four of the birds are from the Galt, Elk Grove and Herald areas of Southern Sacramento County and one bird was found near Madison in Yolo County. “Finding these infected birds is a clear indication that the virus is present in our area”, said David Brown, District Manager. “This needs to be a wake up call to all residents to take West Nile virus seriously and protect themselves,” said Brown.  Dead birds are used as a surveillance mechanism to track West Nile virus activity in our area. As a response to the five new bird reports, the District will increase trapping and surveillance in the areas where the birds were found as well as their larval and adult mosquito control efforts. “We urge residents to inspect their homes carefully and drain any sources of standing water that may be producing mosquitoes. It’s also of prime importance to wear a good repellent if you’re engaging in outdoor activities around dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active”, said Brown.

To report a dead bird or squirrel, call 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or visit the California Department of Public Health at www.westnile.ca.gov

2009 West Nile virus activity update:

Level  2–Sacramento County: 5 dead birds, 0 sentinel chickens, 1 mosquito sample have tested positive for West Nile virus to date.

Level 3–Yolo County: 1 dead bird, 1 sentinel chicken, 0 mosquito samples have tested positive for West Nile virus to date

Contact: Luz Maria Rodriguez, Public Information Officer

Office: 916.405.2082  |  Cell: 916.416.6337

E-mail: lrodriguez@FIGHTtheBITE.net