Dead Crow Found in the Neighborhood Tested Positive for West Nile Virus

The Seattle P-I reported yesterday:

"The local health department says that a dead crow found in Seattle’s Laurelhurst neighborhood has tested positive for West Nile virus.

It’s the first finding of West Nile virus in King County this year, and health officials said it underscores that people here are at risk of contracting the virus.

The dead bird was found Aug. 24, several weeks earlier than when the virus was discovered in 2008. Last year, the virus was discovered in a dead bird on Sept. 15.

That means there is a longer period this year at which humans are at risk of contracting the virus.

'There are still mosquitoes outdoors during the cooler fall months, so protect yourself against mosquito bites,' said Dr. Sharon Hopkins, Public health veterinarian for Public Health – Seattle & King County, in a news release. 'The risk of contracting West Nile virus is not yet over for this season.'

Mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds spread West Nile virus to people. The virus can cause serious illness, especially in older adults."

According to the article, here are some tips offered by the Health Department.

It is also critical, according to DOH, to report all dead crows on-line or by calling 206-205-4394, as crows are an especially good indicator of West Nile virus.