SAN MATEO COUNTY MOSQUITO AND VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT 1351 Rollins Road Burlingame, California 94010-2409 PH: (650) 344-8592 FAX: (650) 344-3843 www.smcmad.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Theresa Shelton: (650) 344 - 8592 *44
June 4, 2013FIRST TWO DEAD BIRDS TEST POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS IN SAN MATEO COUNTY
San Mateo, CA – Two dead birds collected from San Mateo on May 30, 2013 and June 2, 2013, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). This is the first indication of WNV in San Mateo County in 2013. Over the previous nine years, from 2004 through 2012, 60 dead birds and 16 squirrels collected in the county tested positive for WNV. To date in 2013, West Nile virus has been detected in seven counties statewide. West Nile Virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito. The primary hosts are birds. Humans, horses and other animals can become infected with WNV if bitten by an infected mosquito. It cannot be spread person to person. “The presence of two West Nile-positive birds early in the season is an important reminder that residents should protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Theresa Shelton, Vector Ecologist for SMCMVCD. “West Nile virus activity is likely to increase as we head into the summer months.”
The San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District (SMCMVCD) controls mosquitoes through an integrated mosquito control program that targets the immature stages, which breed in standing water. “Our vector control technicians are continuously inspecting standing water and treating sources of mosquito breeding throughout the county,” stated Shelton. Reports of dead birds are an early indication that the virus is circulating in the environment.
Residents are encouraged to help by reporting fresh carcasses of birds or tree squirrels to the West Nile virus hotline, online at www.westnile.ca.gov or by phone at 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). To prevent mosquito breeding on your property and to prevent mosquito bites, follow the “Three D’s”:
- DRAIN – Mosquitoes lay their eggs on standing water. Eliminate all sources of standing water on your property, including flower pots, old car tires, rain gutters and pet bowls.
- DAWN and DUSK – Mosquitoes bite in the early morning and evening so it is important to wear proper clothing and repellent if outside during these times. Make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes out.
- DEET– Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaradin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 according to label instructions. Repellents keep the mosquitoes from biting you. DEET can be used safely on infants and children 2 months of age and older.
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