In an effort to reduce mosquito populations, and the threat of West Nile virus in San Mateo, the San Mateo County Mosquito and Vector Control District said a fogging operation performed last week was successful.
According to the district, mosquito traps set before and after the fogging treatment Thursday covering 350 acres in San Mateo showed a 77 percent reduction in the adult mosquito population. In addition, post-fogging mosquito samples collected in San Mateo on Saturday were negative for West Nile virus.
District officials said reports of dead birds are an early indication that the West Nile virus is circulating in the environment and are asking residents to report any fresh carcasses of birds or tree squirrels to a West Nile virus hotline at www.westnile.ca.gov or by phone at (877) 968-2473 (WNV-BIRD).