Bird infected with West Nile found in Novato

NOVATO (KRON) — A dead crow was discovered in Novato, marking the first sign of the West Nile Virus in Marin County this year, according to the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District.

District officials confirmed an infected American crow was collected near Dusel Ct. in Novato.

“Dead birds can be our first indicators of virus in an area and a valuable tool for protecting public health,” according to Sarah Brooks, lead Biologist for the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District.

Technicians will continue to monitor and trap adult mosquito to test them for the virus, according to district officials.

To combat the disease and protect neighborhoods, residents are advised to remove stagnant water in their yards on a regular basis.

To report dead birds, residents can call the West Nile Virus hotline at (877) 968-2473.