The first West Nile Virus infected bird in Los Angeles County was discovered in Santa Clarita, according to officials.

An american crow that was collected from the city of Santa Clarita was confirmed positive on April 19, 2016, according to the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.

This is the first West Nile Virus positive bird recorded in the district this year. Three positive mosquito samples have been reported in prior weeks from the cities of Gardena, Sun Valley and Woodland Hills.

“These test results are all indications that WNV is active in our communities, and precautions are warranted. Residents can expect West Nile Virus to be pervasive throughout L.A. County as the year progresses,” said Kelly Middleton, the district’s community affairs director.

Vector Control officials advise residents to take the necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent. Effective repellents contain EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.

Residents should also dump and drain any standing water around the home. This prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs in any container that can hold stagnant water.

West Nile Virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito.

There is no cure for West Nile virus.

One in five persons infected with West Nile Virus will exhibit symptoms. Symptoms usually occur between five and 15 days, and can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash. These symptoms can last for several weeks to months.

One in 150 people infected with the virus will require hospitalization. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis and possibly death.

If residents are still experiencing mosquito problems even after dumping and draining all standing water, they can receive help from the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District by calling (562) 944-9656 or visiting www.ReportMosquitoes.org.

Ed. Note: This article is a news release provided by the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District.