Why is the state testing birds, and what should I do if I find a dead bird?
Crows, blue jays, and robins seem to be sensitive to West Nile Virus and provide an early warning system for detection of West Nile Virus activity. If a dead crow, blue jay, or robin is found between May 1 and October 15 and appears to have died of natural causes, please report to the Woodford County Health Department. We will be keeping a log of dead birds and locations.

We will also be sending in up to 10 birds (crows, blue jays, robins or other perching birds) for testing. Any birds submitted for testing must be dead less than 48 hours. Please call 309-467-3064 for more information.

Show All Answers

1. What is West Nile encephalitis?
2. How do people get West Nile encephalitis?
3. What is the transmission cycle of West Nile Virus in the environment?
4. Is it only humans who become ill when infected with West Nile Virus?
5. What are the symptoms of West Nile encephalitis?
6. What percentage of West Nile Virus cases are fatal?
7. What is the risk of contracting West Nile encephalitis?
8. Is there a treatment for West Nile encephalitis?
9. Is there a vaccine for West Nile encephalitis?
10. If bitten by a mosquito should I be tested?
11. Why is the state testing birds, and what should I do if I find a dead bird?
12. How can West Nile Virus infection be prevented?