‘Dump and Drain’ to Protect Against West Nile Virus

Take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites

With warmer temperatures during the holiday weekend, more people are likely to be outside during peak mosquito-bite times—dawn and dusk. The best way to protect yourself from getting bitten, and possibly exposed to the West Nile virus, is to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and to apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of lemon eucalyptus, according to the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District.

The California Department of Public Health has counted 289 dead birds, 1,220 mosquito samples and 19 human cases of West Nile virus in the state since January 2024. Meanwhile, the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District has detected 38 dead birds and 15 groups of mosquitoes which have tested positive for West Nile virus here in Alameda County. The birds were collected in many cities, from Oakland to Fremont, and throughout eastern Alameda County. Recent West Nile virus positive mosquito detections indicate heightened virus transmission potential in the Union City and Fremont areas.

The district is intensifying efforts to locate and treat areas of standing water where West Nile virus positive birds and mosquitoes were discovered. Residents will see additional staff in the areas near where the WNV mosquitoes were found. An online map of Alameda County West Nile Virus Activity shows the locations.

What you can do

Be proactive! Eliminate sources of water where mosquitoes can breed. Dump and drain containers of water at home, or tightly cover them to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in your yard and your neighborhood.

Mosquitoes may breed in almost any type of standing water including but not limited to catch basins, storm drain systems, bird baths and swimming pools. Neglected swimming pools can be a major source of mosquito breeding throughout California, including Alameda County. If you or anyone you know has an unmaintained swimming pool, please inform the District so the proper treatment can be made.

If you find standing water in public or inaccessible areas call the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District at 510-783-7744. Many birds, especially crows, ravens, and songbirds are especially vulnerable to West Nile virus, and the district collects and tests deceased birds found in the county for the virus. If you find a dead bird, please report it by calling 877-WNV-BIRD or report it online at www.westnile.ca.gov.

Residents may request mosquito fish for fish ponds, horse troughs, or neglected swimming pools at the District office at 23187 Connecticut Street in Hayward.

Remember, reduce the risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines:

• DUMP/DRAIN standing water on your property to decrease opportunity for mosquitoes to breed.
• DAWN/DUSK is peak time 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/window screens should be in good condition with no tears or holes.

About West Nile Virus

There is no cure for West Nile virus. 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. Adults over 50 years old and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of serious complications. Anyone who develops symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

For information concerning West Nile virus symptoms, prevention or testing please contact the Alameda County Public Health Department at (510) 267-8001.

Horses are very susceptible to West Nile virus, but vaccines are available. Horse owners are advised to contact their veterinarians regarding timely vaccinations.

For information about mosquitoes, West Nile virus, or to request any of the District services visit the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District website or call 510-783-7744.

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