West Nile virus was found in three birds near Canyon Country after the Los Angeles County Vector Control District officials tested them for the mosquito related virus.

The dead birds tested positive for the virus after they were discovered June 17, said Kelly Middleton, director of community affairs for the agency.

Other dead birds that contain the virus have been found in 2016 throughout Santa Clarita include: Valencia, Castaic and Stevenson Ranch, Middleton said.

The agency monitors birds for the virus and has regular mosquito trap stations throughout Los Angeles County to test the insects for virus activity.

“The most powerful thing they can do right now is to go out around their yards and work with their neighbors and family and look for any water,” Middleton said.

Pools that aren’t being treated corrected and buckets filled with rain water are some of the breeding spots that mosquitos are attracted to.

Residents should also use mosquito repellent that contains any of the three ingredients: DEET,  picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus, if they want to keep mosquitos at a distance, Middleton said.  

There is no cure for West Nile virus. Only physicians can provide medications to reduce symptoms.

Symptoms of the virus may include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash between five and fifteen days from initial infection and can last for several months, according to the agency’s website.

“People should be alert and take precautions against mosquito bites, said Middleton. “If they think they have picked up West Nile virus, they should contact their physician.

Humans can only get the virus from mosquitos, and potentially through medical blood transfusions.

The only other two animals that can contract the virus are birds and horses.

While no numbers of people contracting the virus have been reported in California this year, the number of cases where people are infected have increased since 2013, said Middleton.

The agency monitors birds for the virus and has regular mosquito trap stations throughout Los Angeles County to test the insects for virus activity.

“If people are noticing mosquito biting activity give us a call, said Middleton. “Let us know about it.”

Residents that see an increase in mosquito activity can call the agency’s Sylmar branch at 818-364-9589.