A dead bird collected in Thousand Oaks has tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the city’s first confirmed detection this year, according to Ventura County officials.
The Ventura County Environmental Health Division said the bird, collected July 2, tested positive with confirmation by the California Department of Public Health.
Prevention Efforts
County officials are urging residents to help reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illness by eliminating standing water around their homes, ensuring doors and windows have tight-fitting screens without holes, wearing long sleeves and long pants when outdoors— particularly at dawn and dusk—and using an EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus (or PMD).
West Nile virus can infect both people and horses. Horse owners with questions about protecting their animals are encouraged to contact their veterinarian.
Residents can report mosquitoes or potential mosquito breeding sources by calling the Ventura County mosquito complaint hotline at 805-658-4310.
Original reporting: Thousand Oaks Acorn — read the source article.
