West Nile virus found in bird, mosquitoes in Solano County

(KRON) — A bird and mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile virus in Solano County this month.

The Solano County Mosquito Abatement District first detected West Nile virus in a bird found near Goodyear Road in Benicia on Aug. 15. The bird was the first to test positive for the virus in Solano County in 2025.

On Aug. 18, the Solano County Mosquito Abatement District confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in mosquitoes in the area of Goodyear Road. The City of Benicia is warning residents to take precautions to avoid contracting the virus.

“Residents are advised to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and protect public health by inspecting their properties for standing water,” the City of Benicia stated on social media Friday. “[The Solano County Mosquito Abatement District] urges residents to be proactive against mosquitoes by wearing EPA-registered mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridim, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IT3535.”

Officials are working to reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area. The Solano County Mosquito Abatement District continues to monitor mosquitoes near Goodyear Road.

“If infected with West Nile virus, most people show no symptoms,” the City of Benicia said. “Some may have fever, headaches, and body aches. Severe cases can lead to hospitalization and, rarely, death. If you have symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Those at higher risk for serious complications include elderly people and those with chronic conditions [like] diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer [and] kidney disease.”

West Nile virus has also been detected in Walnut Creek, Vacaville, Suisun City and San Ramon this summer.

Officials recommend the following tips for preventing the spread of West Nile virus:

• Check for standing water
• Drain standing water
• Empty items like flowerpots, planter dishes, pet dishes, buckets and old tires
• Clean regularly, wash bird baths and pet bowls weekly
• Repair leaky faucets and broken sprinkler heads
• Avoid over-watering
• Ensure window and door screens are intact, have no holes, and fit well
• Keep swimming pools at proper water levels for circulation and filtration