WEST NILE VIRUS INFORMATION
Broome County Health
2003
Live or dead birds that are found pose no immediate health threat to the public. These calls do not require an emergency response. West Nile Virus transmission from bird to human in natural settings has not been documented. Sickly or dead Crows should be left alone and reported to Anne Clarke at Binghamton University at 777-6228 or email at crowrsch@binghamton.edu. All other birds should be reported to USDA Wildlife Service at 1-866-537-2473. Not all reported birds will be picked up or tested. All reports are recorded and used for further study.
West Nile Virus is a virus transmitted to birds, humans and mammals from the bite of an infected mosquito. West Nile Virus was first detected in Uganda in 1937 and showed up in the United States in 1999. Broome County Health Department has been active in larval mosquito, adult mosquito, avian, and human surveillance for the past four years. The virus affects mainly birds, but can be transmitted to animals and humans. The virus can cause infection and inflammation of the brain. Most West Nile Virus infected humans have NO symptoms. A small portion of those infected develop mild flu like symptoms such as head ache, body ache and fever. Less than 1% of infected people develop severe illness resulting in encephalitis.
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