Certain birds will be tested for virus

Mosquito traps will be set up throughout the county to catch insects for testing.

NEW CASTLE, Pa. — As surveillance begins this year for the West Nile Virus, officials have limited the types of sick or dead birds that will be tested for the disease.

Janice Alberico, West Nile coordinator in Lawrence County, said West Nile staff will pick up blue jays, American crows, owls and red tailed-hawks that residents believe might have been infected with the disease. No other types of birds will be tested this year. Previously, other types of birds were also tested. Residents, however, may report other types of dead birds and the staff will use those sites to test mosquitoes for West Nile.

Alberico said they are currently searching for wet areas where surveillance traps can be set. Traps will be set up throughout the county. She asked that the traps not be stolen or tampered with as they are costly to replace. She said any damage will reduce the amount of surveillance the county can do this year.

She reminds residents that eliminating standing water is the best way to ward off West Nile Virus. West Nile is transported by mosquitoes, which breed in standing water.

What to do

Residents can eliminate standing water by:

UDisposing of refuse, such as cans, containers and used tires that hold water.

UDrill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers and check uncovered junk piles.

UClean clogged roof gutters every year, and check storm drains, leaky faucets and window wells.

UDo not allow water to stagnate in birdbaths, ornamental pools, water gardens and swimming pools and their covers. Ornamental pools can be aerated or stocked with fish. Swimming pools should be cleaned and chlorinated when not in use.

UAlter landscape of property to eliminate standing water.

UAfter a rain or hosing, sweep the water to eliminate puddles, because mosquitoes can breed in any puddle of water during warm weather.

To report wets spots, standing water or sick or dead birds in Lawrence County, call the Penn State Cooperative Extension at (724) 654-8370 or e-mail jma2@psu.edu.