Another Bird in Marion County Tests Positive For West Nile

There have been no human cases of West Nile virus identified in Marion County.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - A blue jay collected on October 24th, from the Aumsville area has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

This is the second case of West Nile virus in a bird from Marion County since the virus was first introduced into the United States in 1999.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. The best defense against West Nile virus is to prevent mosquito bites.

People can take the following steps to reduce their chances of being bitten:

• Eliminate all sources of standing water that can support mosquito breeding, such as leaf-clogged gutters, birdbaths, and old tires.
• If possible, avoid being outside at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long pants, long sleeve shirts, and other protective clothing while outdoors.
• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
• Wear insect repellent, preferably one that contains DEET or Picaridin.

West Nile virus is an infection that lives in birds.

It is spread when a mosquito feeds on an infected bird and then bites a human.

Birds cannot transmit the illness directly to humans, nor is it transmitted from other animals to humans or from person-to-person.

Most people who are infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms, and in those who do symptoms are usually mild, with fever and flu-like illness.

Severe infections may cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and rarely, death. The risk of severe illness is greater in persons over 50 years of age.

A vaccine against West Nile virus has been developed for horses, but there is no vaccine for humans.

People who find a bird that is known to have died due to illness within the past 24 hours should call (503) 588-5346 to ask about testing.

Only crows, jays, ravens and magpies will be tested for West Nile virus.

For more information about West Nile virus and protection against mosquito bites, call (503) 588-5346.