2 Birds Test Positive For West Nile In Pleasanton

PLEASANTON, CA — Two dead birds tested positive for West Nile virus in Pleasanton on Wednesday, the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District reported. The virus can be spread to humans via the bite of an infected mosquito, though no human cases have been reported in the Tri-Valley as of Thursday.

The disease can result in fever, headaches, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, or rash. Less than one percent of infected people have developed serious neurological illnesses like encephalitis or meningitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is currently no known cure for it.

Residents can take several steps to avoid contracting the disease, including:

• Dumping or draining any standing water on their property.
• Limiting activity during dusk and dawn, which are peak mosquito hours.
• Wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors, and applying EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Making sure door and window screens do not have any tears or holes.

Over 7,000 human cases and over 300 deaths have been reported in California since 2003, according to the Alameda County Public Health Department.

The Mosquito Abatement program works to limit risks by monitoring ponds, trapping to detect high numbers of mosquitos, collecting birds for testing, and more. Visit mosquitos.org for more information. To report a dead bird or squirrel, call the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). Residents can also fill out an online reporting form.