7 MORE DEAD CROWS FOUND WITH WEST NILE VIRUS

Saturday, October 14, 2006

West Nile virus is primarily a bird disease. Mosquitoes feed on infected birds and then pass the virus on to humans, horses and other animals. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain or the lining of the spinal cord and the brain. Only about 1 in 150 infected people has severe symptoms that can lead to death. (See below for details of bird control).

The latest finds bring to nine the number of birds found in Washington with the virus this year, reported Kyung Song of the Seattle Times.

Until September, Washington had largely escaped the virus that has killed 882 people nationwide since its first U.S. detection in 1999. Last month a Pierce County couple in their 40s were confirmed as Washington's first human West Nile cases. Maine is now the only state in the continental United States without a confirmed human case.

Smith said the number of new bird cases means that West Nile cases likely will surface earlier during next year's mosquito season, which starts in May.

Rick Zahalka of the Snohomish Health District expects the virus to become a bigger health issue in Washington. See more at:
Seattle Times: Health officials say West Nile found in seven more dead crows

Mosquitoes get infected when they feed on an infected bird. Although the virus does not affect most humans and horses, WSDA considers this to be a serious threat to the state.

Protecting horses and other equines

The virus affects horses, mules, donkeys and other equines much more often than other animals. Most horses do not become ill and show no symptoms at all. Those that do become ill show signs such as loss of appetite, loss of coordination, confusion, fever, stiffness, muscle tremors and weakness. About one-third of horses that become ill die.

Now is a good time to talk to your veterinarian about the West Nile virus vaccine. The vaccine requires two doses three to six weeks apart, and immunity may not be achieved until up to six weeks after the second dose. An annual booster should be given a few weeks to a month prior to the start of the mosquito season in your area.

The Bird Buffer™ can keep the birds under control, reducing the potential of infected birds in your area. If you have barn swallow, sparrows, pigeons, or other wild birds that find your animal lodging to their liking, try the latest guaranteed bird control system that is keeping birds away from these areas.

Contact GBS, Inc at 425-697-4274.