West Nile virus found in dead bird, mosquitoes in Santa Rosa

The heat wave moving through the area could cause rise in the mosquito population, warn vector district officials.|
ELIZABETH M. COSIN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

A sampling of mosquitoes and a dead bird both found in Santa Rosa have tested positive for the West Nile virus, the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito & Vector Control District said Wednesday.

In addition, a sentinel chicken from Cloverdale tested positive for the virus’ antibodies.

The mosquito sampling and dead bird were found near Dancing Penny Way in Santa Rosa.

A heat wave moving through the area this week could cause a rise in the mosquito population, according to vector district officials who warned residents to take steps to prevent mosquito infestation and use repellent.

To date, there have been 26 dead birds, seven mosquito samplings, one horse and three sentinel chickens that have tested positive in Sonoma County for West Nile virus, a disease spread through the bite of mosquitoes.

Residents are encouraged to report dead birds to the West Nile virus hotline at 1-877-968-2473 or online at www.westnile.ca.gov.

You can reach Staff Writer Elizabeth M. Cosin at 521-5276 or elizabeth.cosin@pressdemocrat.com.

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