West Nile Virus
West Nile virus (WNV) is a potentially serious illness. WNV has been established as a seasonal epidemic that generally runs June 1 to Nov. 1. Click on this interactive map to view reported WNV cases across California.
To report a dead bird or squirrel call the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473). The Hotline is staffed with live operators. You may also use this online reporting form.
How WNV IS Spread to Humans?
WNV is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. Human-to-human transmission of WNV does not occur. However, human WNV infections have been associated with blood transfusions and organ transplants.
Control Activities in Alameda County
As of Sept. 28, 2018, California reported 469 dead birds and 1,889 mosquito pools that tested positive for West Nile Virus in 37 counties. There also were 114 human cases statewide of WNV, and two human deaths. In Alameda County, 17 dead birds and 15 mosquito pools tested positive for WNV, with no human cases.
During WNV season, Alameda County’s Mosquito Abatement program works to limit risks to residents by monitoring ponds and other possible mosquito breeding sites; trapping to detect high numbers of mosquitoes; treating sewer catch-basins to prevent breeding; collecting birds for testing; and educating residents and owners about removing standing water from private property to limit mosquito breeding and mosquito bites.
News
| September 10, 2018 | CDPH Confirms First Two Human West Nile Virus Deaths of 2018 |
| June 22, 2018 | WNV Activity Increasing in Alameda County Presence of both WNV positive dead birds and mosquitoes in Union City warrants caution. |
| June 15, 2018 | CDPH Confirms First Human West Nile Virus Illnesses of 2018 |
| June 08, 2018 | Mosquito adulticiding scheduled to suppress WNV activity in Union City neighborhood |
| May 25, 2018 | Dead bird infected with WNV confirmed in Alameda County – First indication of WNV here in 2018 |
| May 1, 2018 | Illnesses from Mosquito, Tick, and Flea Bites Increasing in the US |
| April 13, 2018 | Mosquito threats on the rise and Californians are nurturing the threat |
Control Activities in Alameda County
As of July 20, 2018, California reported 108 dead birds and 315 mosquito pools that tested positive for West Nile Virus in 24 counties. There also were 10 human cases of WNV. In Alameda County, 8 dead birds and 7 mosquito pools tested positive for WNV, with no human cases.