Magpie tests positive for West Nile

A magpie found in Salt Lake County has tested positive for West Nile virus.

It was the first detection of West Nile virus in Utah this year and the earliest West Nile virus has been reported in Utah since monitoring began, said Ilene Risk, director of the epidemiology bureau for the Salt Lake Valley Health Department .

Wild birds are important indicators of West Nile viral activity because the virus is often detected in birds before it is detected in humans.

"That tells us that the virus is circulating in our population and that means that people need to take precautions," Risk said.

There have been no human cases so far this year, but West Nile virus was detected in every area of the state last year. There were 52 reported human cases. Twenty Utahns were hospitalized and one died in 2005, according to the Utah Department of Health.

Of those infected, 80 percent will exhibit no symptoms and 20 percent will exhibit minor West Nile symptoms, like a fever or headaches. A very small percentage of those infected develop a serious illness, Risk said.

The Division or Wildlife Resources is encouraging the public to help survey for infected birds. If an individual sees a sick or dead bird in their area, they can report it at the DWR's Web site at www.wildlife.utah.gov/wnv/.

Birds that can be tested include ravens, crows, jays, raptors and others. Birds must appear to be ill or dying, or must have been dead for less than 24 hours with no other obvious cause of death.

To protect against infection through the bite of an infected mosquito, people over the age of 2 should use mosquito repellents with DEET or Picaridin — especially from dusk to dawn because mosquitoes carrying the virus are most active during that time.

Everyone should wear protective clothing like long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outside. Window screens and screened doors should be in good repair. People should change water in bird baths, outdoor pet dishes and other standing containers every two to three days. Standing water around a home in old tires, cans or any other source should be eliminated.