Crows test positive for West Nile Virus in Columbia county

The Columbia county Department of Health has confirmed 4 crows have tested positive for West Nile Virus. 

The crows were found in the Craryville, Valatie and Greenport areas.

As of July 31st only one human West Nile case in the entire state has been reported and that was in the New York City area.

West Nile Virus is spread through mosquitos and the Department of health says the best way to protect yourself is to guard against mosquito bites.

Mosquitos like to lay their eggs in stagnant water around your home so removing any standing water will go a long way in protecting yourself.

The Department of Health encourages you to do the following:

• Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or similar water-holding containers.
• Drill drain holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors.
• Make sure that your roof gutters drain properly, and clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.Turn over wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Change the water in bird baths twice a week.
• Dispose of used tires. Call your local landfill or public works department to find out how to dispose of them properly.
• Clean vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds.
• Clean and properly chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs.
• Drain water from pool covers.Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.
• Make sure windows and doors have screens in good condition.

For more information or to report dead birds in your area particularly crows call the Columbia County Health Department at (518) 828-3358.

For more information on West Nile Virus visit the State Departments website at www.health.state.ny.us