FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

One dead bird tests positive in Sonoma County

Cotati, CA (August 20,2026) - The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito & Vector Control District has confirmed finding the first dead bird infected with West Nile virus (WNV) for 2026. The American Crow was collected near Covey Road and Trenton Road in Forestville and is the first detection of West Nile virus activity in the North Bay for the 2026 season.  

"The detection of Sonoma County's first WNV positive crow for 2026 confirms that California's most common and serious vector-borne disease is active in our area,” stated Peter Bonkrude, District Manager for the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District. 

With 373 WNV positive dead birds and 30 human cases already reported across the state this year, WNV remains a persistent threat that has caused over 400 deaths in California since 2003.

"Reporting dead birds is important because these sightings are often the first indicator of viral spread. We encourage the community to continue to report dead birds to help us track this virus,” stated Bonkrude. 

District staff will continue to trap, test, and monitor the abundance of adult mosquitoes in the area where the positive dead bird was found. In addition, vector control technicians are inspecting all documented sources of mosquito production, searching for new sources, and conducting mosquito control operations as necessary. 

The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District, along with the California Department of Public Health, recommend using a repellent with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, para-menthane-diol (PMD), or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) when heading outdoors, especially during dusk and dawn. 

Other ways residents can protect themselves from mosquitoes and mosquito-borne diseases: 

• Stock permanent water features with mosquitofish (free from the District) 
• Be sure to properly screen and/or secure lids on rain barrels or water storage containers 
• Do not over-water lawns 
• Clean out bird baths and animal water bowls at least twice a week 
• Keep swimming pools and hot tubs properly chlorinated 
• Make sure that septic tank lids are properly sealed and vent pipes are screened 
• Report mosquito problems to 707-285-2200 or online at www.msmosquito.org 

Visit www.msmosquito.org to report mosquito issues or to learn more about mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases. 

The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District's programs and services are funded through property taxes and benefit assessments and are provided to all residents in Marin and Sonoma counties at no additional charge. 

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