FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 16, 2026

Dead Bird in Eastvale Tests Positive for West Nile Virus; District Reminds Residents to Take Preventive Action

First Detection of the Season Serves as Reminder to Prevent Mosquito Breeding and Protect Against Mosquito Bites

CORONA, Calif. – A dead bird collected in the City of Eastvale has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), marking the first detection of the virus within Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District this season. The bird was tested by the UC Davis Center for Vector-borne Diseases.

 

While this is the first local detection this season, West Nile virus is endemic in California, meaning it is established throughout the state and returns each year. West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples, infected birds, and human cases have already been reported in other parts of California. At this time, no mosquito samples collected within the district's service area have tested positive for West Nile virus.

 

"This is the time of year when it's especially important for residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their properties." said Nikia Smith, Director of Operations at Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District. "Mosquito control is a community effort, and by working together to remove stagnant water where mosquitoes breed and practicing bite prevention, we can help reduce the risk of West Nile virus in our communities."

 

In response to the positive bird, the District has increased mosquito surveillance in the surrounding area. District staff are placing additional mosquito traps within a 0.5 to 1-mile radius of where the bird was collected to monitor mosquito activity and test mosquitoes for West Nile virus. Surveillance findings will help guide any additional mosquito control efforts, if warranted.

 

West Nile virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. While most infected individuals experience no symptoms, some may develop fever, headache, body aches, or rash. In rare cases, the virus can cause serious neurological illness, particularly in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.

 

The District reminds residents that preventing mosquito breeding and avoiding mosquito bites are the best defenses against West Nile virus. Residents are encouraged to:

• Dump and drain standing water from buckets, flowerpot saucers, birdbaths, toys, tires, and other containers at least once a week.
• Scrub containers that hold water to remove mosquito eggs.
• Maintain swimming pools, spas, and ornamental ponds to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Wear an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus when spending time outdoors.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when practical and ensure window and door screens are in good condition.

Residents are also encouraged to:

• Contact Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District at 951-340-9792 if they are experiencing mosquito problems or would like to report neglected swimming pools or other stagnant water sources.
• Report dead birds by visiting westnile.ca.gov or calling 1-877-968-2473 (1-877-WNV-BIRD).
• For more information about mosquito prevention and District services, visit www.northwestmvcd.org.

 

About Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District

Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District is a local public health agency dedicated to protecting the communities it serves from mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases through control operations, surveillance, outreach, and education. The District serves the communities of Jurupa Valley, Eastvale, Riverside, Norco, Corona, Lake Elsinore, and Canyon Lake, Highgrove, Wood Crest, Home Gardens, El Cerrito, and Temescal Valley.

 

Contact

Alexa Christopher

Communications Specialist

Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District

Phone: 951-340-9792

Email: achristopher@northwestmvcd.org

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Northwest MVCD Press Release for Dead Bird In Eastvale 072026.pdf