10/23/2026
West Nile virus detected in a dead crow from East Palo Alto
West Nile virus was recently detected in a dead American crow collected from East Palo Alto. West Nile virus is spread to people, birds, and horses through the bite of an infected mosquito.
It only takes a small amount of water to produce mosquitoes, so following these simple steps can reduce the risk of mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit:
- Dump standing water at least once a week, including in flowerpots and saucers, old tires, buckets, pet dishes, and trash cans. Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in very small amounts of standing water.
- When outside and mosquitoes are active, apply insect repellent containing an active ingredient registered with the Environmental Protection Agency – such as DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 – according to label instructions.
- Wear long sleeves and pants, especially if outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Install screens on windows and doors, and keep them in good repair to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
- Clean rain gutters clogged with leaves.
- Report dead birds to the statewide West Nile Virus Call Center by phone at 1-877-WNV-BIRD (1-877-968-2473) or online (https://westnile.ca.gov/). Not all birds can be collected for testing, but all reports help the District identify potential risk areas for West Nile virus.
- Report biting mosquitoes - call us at 650-344-8592 or submit a request for service online at https://www.smcmvcd.org/
For more information about West Nile virus and District services, go to the District’s website at https://www.smcmvcd.org/