Four chickens near Redding catch West Nile virus

From The Record Searchlight
October 3, 2017

Four “sentinel chickens” east of Redding have tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District.

The district keeps flocks of chickens in various locations within the district as disease sentinels. The presence of the virus in chickens indicates “this is a sign of increased risk to people from West Nile virus,” the district said in a news release.

“Even though temperatures are dropping, we are still actively trapping mosquitoes that have the potential to transmit West Nile virus. If you plan to be outside during dusk or dawn, it is imperative you continue to protect yourself from mosquito bites,” cautioned Peter Bonkrude, district manager of the Shasta Mosquito and Vector Control District.

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