A dead bird found near Placerville has tested positive for West Nile virus, the first this year.

The bird, a Western Scrub Jay, was found Aug. 23. There have been no reported cases of human infection with West Nile virus this year in El Dorado County.

As of Aug. 26, West Nile virus activity has been reported in 36 California counties. Statewide more than 1,000 birds have tested positive for West Nile virus, 78 people have been infected with the virus and two people have died.

West Nile virus can be transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.  Mosquitoes get the virus when they feed on infected birds. The illness is not spread from person-to-person.