The Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District has now found the County’s first West Nile virus positive mosquito this year, after finding two West Nile virus birds in Union City earlier this year. The mosquito was collected from western Union City and was confirmed to have West Nile virus at the District laboratory on March 11.
The District is increasing mosquito monitoring and larval control efforts throughout the area where the West Nile virus positive mosquito was discovered. Residents may see district trucks and labeled mosquito traps in the areas near Interstate 880 and Alvarado Niles Road. See a map of West Nile positives for the year on the Mosquito Abatement District’s West Nile Virus Activity web page.
Every effort is being made to locate areas of standing water where mosquitoes may breed, including but not limited to catch basins, storm drain systems, and swimming pools. Neglected swimming pools continue to be a mosquito breeding issue in Alameda County. If you or anyone you know has an unmaintained swimming pool, please inform the District so the proper treatment can be made.
“It is unusual for us to have a West Nile virus detection this early in Alameda County, though it is not surprising after we found two West Nile positive birds in Union City recently,” said Mosquito Abatement District General Manager Ryan Clausnitzer. “We have had a large amount of rain in the past few months, which means more places for mosquitoes to lay their eggs and reproduce rapidly. While we are controlling the mosquitoes in public spaces, we rely on residents to reduce their risk of mosquitoes on their own property. Dump and drain or tightly cover containers that have standing water to reduce mosquitoes around your house and workplace.”
Protect yourself
Reduce the risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines:
- Dump/drain standing water on your property, since mosquitoes need water to develop.
- Dawn and dusk are peak times for mosquito activity, so limit outdoor activities during this time.
- Defend yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts and apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Door and window screens should be in good repair with no tears or holes.
About the virus
West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. Approximately one in five people who are infected with West Nile virus will develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, or rash. Less than 1% will develop a serious neurological illness such as encephalitis or meningitis.
There is no cure for West Nile virus. Adults over 50 and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of serious complications. Anyone who develops symptoms should seek medical care immediately.
Horses are very susceptible to West Nile virus and vaccines are available. Horse owners are advised to contact their veterinarians regarding timely vaccinations.
More info
For more information about mosquitoes and West Nile virus, or to request any of the District services visit the Mosquito Abatement District website or call 510-783-7744. Residents may also request mosquitofish for fish ponds, horse troughs, or neglected swimming pools at the District office at 23187 Connecticut St., Hayward.
For information about West Nile virus symptoms, prevention, or testing please contact the Alameda County Public Health Department at 510-267-8001.
