Crow tests positive for West Nile virus

A dead crow found in the Town of Perinton has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV), according to Monroe County health officials. Monroe County is the second county in the state, since Dutchess County, to have identified WNV this year.

WNV is spread almost exclusively by the bite of an infected mosquito. Prevention is believed to be the most effective strategy to protect against contracting WNV. Health officials strongly recommend the following actions:

•Avoid mosquito bites: While the vast majority of mosquitoes do not carry WNV, take steps to avoid being bitten, particularly during times when mosquitoes are most active (between dusk and dawn).

•Use insect repellent containing DEET. DEET has been shown to be safe and highly effective at preventing bites. It is important to follow manufacturer's instructions and to wash the repellent off once inside for the evening.

•Cover up: When practical, wear long-sleeves and pants to cover exposed skin to reduce likelihood of being bitten.

•Keep mosquitoes outside by making sure that all screens are in good repair.

•Drain standing water: The species of mosquito that transmit WNV breed in very small and dirty pools of water as opposed to ponds and lakes. Common breeding sites include old tires, roof rain gutters, bird baths, wheelbarrows and any other item that will hold small amounts of water for several days. Mosquitoes don't travel far from where they hatch, so draining standing water on a property will reduce the volume of mosquitoes in that area.

•Report dead crows: Reports of dead crows assist health officials to determine the level of virus circulating and whether further protective actions are warranted. Monroe County residents should report dead crows only by calling an automated report line - 234-9600 or by visiting the county's website at www.MonroeCounty.gov. Click on the Public Health page to access an on-line form. As a high percentage of crows typically test positive, it is not necessary to test all crows. Health officials will discuss the need for testing with residents who call.

Each summer the Monroe County Health Department engages in a number of activities to reduce the risk from WNV, including: Educational mailings to senior citizen facilities stressing prevention practices; education of general public through the county website and group presentations; dead crow testing and surveillance to track area in county with the greatest activity; mosquito trapping to identify virus and to track the species most prevalent at time and mailings to municipal officials seeking assistance in draining standing water.