LIVINGSTON COUNTY – A dead crow tested positive for West Nile Virus on Monday, making it the first recorded case of the virus within the County this year.
According to a press release from Livingston County Administrator Ian Coyle, the New York State Department of Health reports that a dead crow found in Livingston County tested positive for West Nile Virus on August 24, but there is no additional threat to public health.
“At this time, no public health response is needed,” said Coyle.
West Nile Virus is spread to humans through the bite of a mosquito which has acquired the virus by feeding on an infected bird.
The Livingston County Department of Health recommends using caution outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active; applying insect repellent to clothing as well as exposed skin since mosquitoes may bite through clothing; making sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry; properly disposing of items that hold water, such as tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, discarded tires, and cleaning roof gutters, and downspouts for proper drainage, since mosquito larvae grow in standing water; cleaning and chlorinating swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs; draining water from pool covers, and trimming tall grass, weeds, and vines, since mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot daylight hours.
Coyle added that the majority of people (80%) who are infected with West Nile Virus do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash, and fatigue.
The Livingston County Department of Health will continue surveillance for the West Nile Virus until the end of the mosquito season.
If you have questions or need to report a sick or dead crow or raven, please call the Livingston County Department of Health Center for Environmental Health at (585) 243-7280 or 335-1717.