VIRGINIA BEACH — A dead crow found last week in Virginia Beach
was carrying the West Nile virus, health officials said. West
Nile virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito and
usually causes mild illness in people. It can also cause severe
inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The sick and the
elderly are the most susceptible. Health officials regularly
examine dead crows and blue jays to track the progression of the
virus. "We are continuing to encourage citizens to reduce their
risk by preventing mosquitoes from breeding around the home and
by protecting themselves from mosquito bites," Dr. Venita Newby-
Owens, director of public health for the city, said Thursday.