West Nile virus detected in a dead bird in Atherton

A dead bird found in Atherton has tested positive for West Nile virus, according to a recent town news alert.

This is the 12th bird this year in San Mateo County to test positive for the virus, as reported by the San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District. Of these, seven were found in Menlo Park, two in Foster City, one in San Carlos, and one in San Mateo.

Nearby Palo Alto, in Santa Clara County, has reported 31 dead birds with West Nile virus, according to the California Department of Public Health’s Vector-Borne Disease section.

“The District is currently collecting and testing mosquitoes in the area for West Nile virus,” said Rachel Curtis-Robles, the Vector Control District’s public health education and outreach officer. “Currently, the risk is considered low, but we will notify the public if we detect the virus in local mosquitoes.”

The bird found in Atherton was an American crow, which is particularly susceptible to West Nile virus. According to the California Public Health Department, there have been no reported cases of the virus in humans, horses, or mosquitoes in San Mateo County so far.

“If mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus, it would indicate a local health risk, prompting further mosquito control measures,” Curtis-Robles added. “Our staff have been setting additional mosquito traps and will test the collected samples for the virus.”

The Vector Control District encourages residents to report dead birds, eliminate standing water on their properties, use EPA-registered insect repellents, and report instances of biting mosquitoes.

“We remind everyone to check their properties for standing water, as it provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” Curtis-Robles said. “If standing water cannot be removed, please report it so we can assess and manage mosquito breeding sites.”

Dead birds can be reported by calling 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473).