2010 was the most active year for West Nile virus
in Grant County.
Let this be a reminder to remain vigilant this year in avoiding
mosquito bites, eliminating standing water around your home and
vaccinating your horses.
Click this link
to view a map of the current West Nile virus activity in Washington.
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk during the months of
May through October. Always use an effective mosquito repellent
while outdoors during these times. Recommended repellents are those
that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), Picaridin, oil of
lemon eucalyptus, PMD (the synthesized version of oil of lemon eucalyptus),
and IR3535. Read and follow instructions on the label. To learn
more on the safe use of mosquito repellent, vist the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention Insect Repellent Use and Safety
web site.
West Nile Virus Surveillance: During "mosquito
season", usually May through October, the Health District participates
in West Nile virus surveillance by tracking and testing certain
dead birds.
How do I report a dead bird?
 
West Nile virus infects certain wild birds. Of those infected, particular
birds (crows, jays,
ravens, and magpies)
tend to become sick and die. Increasing numbers of dead birds may
be an indication of West Nile virus in our community. You
can help by reporting dead crows and other birds online
or to the Grant County Health District at (509) 754-6060 ext.
0. You may be contacted to determine whether the bird is
suitable for testing. If you have not been contacted within 24 hours,
please safely dispose of the bird.
While there is no evidence that you can get West Nile virus from
handling dead birds, avoid bare-handed contact. Use a shovel, robber
gloves or a double inverted grocery bag to pick up the carcass.
Dead birds not collected for testing should sealed in double plastic
bags and discarded in an outdoor garbage can.
Although it is important for public health officials to track dead
bird sightings, many dead birds will not be collected
or tested. In general, the birds listed above will be collected
and tested only if they are freshly dead with no apparent injuries.
If you find a dead bird that you think might be suitable for testing,
it should be kept cold until it is collected.
For more information on West Nile virus visit:
Washington
State Department of Health West Nile Virus web site
CDC
West Nile Virus web site
Health
care provider information
Other
vector-borne disease topics
If you would like additional information about the local vector
control program, please visit our environmental
health programs web page.
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