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West Nile Virus Found in Blue Jay in S.C.

Posted on: Tuesday, 20 September 2005, 18:00 CDT

Sep. 20--West Nile virus has been confirmed in a bird in the Midlands for the first time this year, state health officials said Monday.

The location of the infected bird -- a blue jay found in Columbia -- is not as significant as the fact that West Nile virus has been found previously throughout the state, said C. Earl Hunter, commissioner of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control.

He said everyone should be vigilant to protect themselves against mosquitoes, which can spread the virus to humans after they bite infected birds. For example, use repellent, repair holes in screens, and empty out standing water where mosquitoes could breed.

Most people do not get sick from the virus, but in August, a Darlington County woman died of West Nile encephalitis.

The public can help in West Nile surveillance by being on the lookout for dead crows or blue jays that appear to have died of natural causes.

For details on how to do this, visit www.scdhec.gov or call your county health department.

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Copyright (c) 2005, The State, Columbia, S.C.

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Source: The State (Columbia, S.C.)

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