A dead crow was discovered in Sierra Madre last week and has tested positive for West Nile virus
This incident is the very first indication of West Nile activity in the San Gabriel Valley thus far this year according to officials.
Warmer temperatures provide ideal conditions for West Nile amplification and transmission and mosquitoes pick up WNV from infected birds, and spread it to other birds when they bite again.
Humans can also get West Nile Virus if bitten by an infected mosquito.
Dead birds are often the first indication of activity in an area. Residents are encouraged to report dead birds to the State hotline (877)WNV-BIRD (968-2473) or online at www.westnile.ca.gov and mosquito problems to their local District.
All standing water should be removed to prevent mosquito reproduction.
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water sources such as neglected pools, buckets, containers, puddles and ponds. Eggs can hatch and mature to biting adults in 5-7 days.
There were 227 reported dead birds in Los Angeles County during 2011.