See a dead bird? Report it to Public Health
As part of their efforts to detect and track West Nile virus, King County health officials want you to report any dead birds you may see.
The virus is spread to birds, humans, horses, and other animals by mosquito bites.
Dead birds can serve as an early warning sign that mosquitoes carrying the virus are in an area.
Health officials are particularly interested in crows, jays, magpies, ravens and raptors, since these species are particularly vulnerable to West Nile virus infections.
To learn how to how to safely handle and report a dead bird go to the King County West Nile website, where you can find an online reporting form, or call 206-205-4394.
West Nile virus appears to be on the rise, infecting 38 people statewide last year.
West Nile infection can be very serious, and even fatal, for some people, Washington State health officials warn:
While most people bitten by a mosquito carrying West Nile virus don’t become ill, some may have mild to severe flu-like symptoms. A few may develop a serious neurological disease. People over 50 and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk for serious illness.
To reduce your risk of infection, health officials advice that you avoid mosquito bites and clear your property of standing water where mosquitos breed:
- Stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active (dusk to dawn).
- Make sure screens on doors and windows are working properly.
- Cover exposed skin with light-colored clothing when outside in the evening.
- Use an effective repellent on exposed skin. Always follow the directions on the label.
- Reduce mosquito larvae habitat around the home by dumping standing water.
- Change water in birdbaths, fountains, wading pools, animal troughs, and other sources twice a week.
To learn more:
- Visit the King County West Nile virus website.
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) West Nile virus website.
Related posts:
- Report dead birds online to help state track spread of West Nile virus
- West Nile virus detected in dead crow found in Seattle’s Laurelhurst neighborhood
- West Nile virus found in dead crow in King County
- West Nile virus making inroads into Western Washington
- West Nile virus arrives early in western Washington
