Report dead crows to Public Health July 16, 2008 · Updated 12:44
PM With the mosquito season underway and West Nile virus (WNV)
once again a concern, King County residents are asked to contact
Public Health with reports of dead birds. Crows in particular
die quickly from West Nile virus and clusters of dead crows may
indicate that West Nile virus is present in the community.
Residents may call (206) 205-4394 or use the on-line reporting
form at: www.metrokc.gov/health/westnile/deadbird.htm. West Nile
virus was not found in King County in 2007, though in past years
birds and horses have died here from the virus, which is spread
through the bite of an infected mosquito. The infection can be
asymptomatic, but it can also cause symptoms ranging from mild
to severe, including diseases of the brain and spinal column. In
the United States in 2007, 3,630 cases of human WNV disease were
reported from 44 states, and 124 people died. People of all ages
can get WNV disease, but people over 50 are more likely to
become se