Regional News
Two dead birds in panhandle test positive for West Nile
Published Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at 03:33 PM
“WNV-positive birds are the first indicator for the presence of West Nile Virus in the area,” Rebecca Thompson, Environmental Health Coordinator at PPHD said. “Finding the virus in birds gives public health officials an indication of the level of virus in the area and the risk to human beings of contracting the disease,” Thompson said.
Citizens may call PPHD at 308-487-3600 or toll free at 866-701-7173, if they see a dead bird. Testing will only be conducted on birds that have died within 24 hours and are in good condition. Birds may be frozen in anticipation of the PPHD representative’s arrival. Individuals should avoid bare-handed contact with any dead animals, and use gloves or an inverted plastic bag to place the bird carcass in a garbage bag and call the Panhandle Public Health District. Testing on all species of birds will be conducted this year.
West Nile is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. In turn, the mosquito can pass the virus to humans. Mosquito trapping for additional surveillance will continue through October to determine if the virus is present in the area. Only one type of mosquito, the common Culex variety, carries the virus.
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This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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- © 2008 Rural Radio Network. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.