2 Birds Test Positive For West Nile Virus In Santa Monica
SANTA MONICA (CBSLA.com) — Two birds found dead in Santa Monica in the last three months have tested positive for the West Nile Virus, officials said.
The most recent bird, an American Crow, was found on July 23 in the area boundaried by Ocean Avenue, Montana Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard, KNX1070's Pete Demetriou reports.
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The first positive bird was reported on May 17, Santa Monica city officials said.
Residents are being asked that if they see dead birds to call 1-877-WNV-BIRD to have them picked up for analysis.
"Mosquitoes become infected when they first feed on birds that carry the virus, and then bite a human or animal," city officials said in a statement.
Los Angeles County health officials warn people to look out for areas of stagnant water that can breed mosquitoes. They also recommend using mosquito repellent if you are walking in the early morning or evening hours when the insects are most active.
There have been 26 reported cases of West Nile Virus in California this year.
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