First WNV Birds Found in Calaveras

Calaveras County, CA — Public Health officials in Calaveras County are reporting that West Nile is officially here in the bird population.

Two birds, one from Mountain Ranch and one from Wallace, have tested positive for the presence of the virus.

The results were reported by the state Wednesday.

County Health Officer Dr. Dean Kelaita says many counties are seeing an increase in West Nile virus activity. He says that´s normal for August and should be expected to continue through October until the weather cools.

Two weeks ago the first mosquitoes carrying the virus were found in Burson.

So far, no human or horse cases have been reported.

For more information, contact the Environmental Health Department at (209) 754-6383 or visit www.co.calaveras.ca.us.

The county also urges residents to report dead birds at (877) 968-2473 or at www.westnile.ca.gov.

Written by Vanessa Turner.