Help protect against West Nile Virus

Published on October 21, 2024

Another dead bird collected in San Mateo County has tested positive for West Nile virus. Residents have reported over 409 birds so far this year, of which 124 were in appropriate condition for testing. Of the over 5,000 mosquitoes tested in 2024, none have tested positive for West Nile virus in San Mateo County.

The San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District encourages you to protect yourself and others against West Nile virus by following the safe practices below: 

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially in the early morning, evening and night when mosquitoes are most active.
• Dump standing water so mosquitoes can’t grow.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent. Learn more about insect repellent.
• Check and repair broken screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your house.
• Report biting mosquitoes – San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District staff will check the neighborhood for standing water and work to stop the mosquito breeding. Report biting mosquitoes by calling 650-344-8592 or submitting a request online.
• Report dead birds to help track West Nile virus. Report dead birds online or by calling 1-877-968-2473.
• Request a free tick-bite prevention kit for San Mateo County residents.

Learn more about West Nile virus.