Help track West Nile virus in South Carolina by submitting birds for testing

The South Carolina Department of Public Health is reminding residents that they can assist in tracking the West Nile virus this summer by submitting certain species of dead birds for lab testing. (FILE)

(WCIV) — The South Carolina Department of Public Health is reminding residents that they can assist in tracking the West Nile virus this summer by submitting certain species of dead birds for lab testing.

Residents can submit recently deceased crows, blue jays, house finches, house sparrows and other songbirds that appear not to have been injured and are not decayed for testing. These species of birds are more susceptible to West Nile Virus than other species, making them good candidates for testing.

The DPH’s dead bird surveillance program helps the agency identify where and when there is an increase in WNV activity. A high rate of birds infected with the disease can indicate an overall increase of the virus in a certain area.

If high levels of WNV are noticed in the area, DPH notifies local officials so they can take appropriate actions to reduce the risk of infections in both people and animals.

“The public’s involvement with our dead bird surveillance program bolsters the agency’s monitoring efforts and can help identify West Nile virus before it begins affecting people,” said Dr. Chris Evans, State Public Health Entomologist. “This is a unique opportunity for the public to proactively assist their public health agency in staying ahead of a potential health risk.”

WNV is spread by mosquitoes that feed on infected birds that carry the virus in their blood. Infected mosquitoes can transmit WNV to people and other animals via bite, which is why mosquito bite prevention and control are so important, according to the DPH.

The DPH doesn’t perform mosquito control, however, the agency does provide current information that helps individuals, communities and local mosquito control programs take action to reduce mosquito populations and prevent bites.

Anyone interested in helping with DPH’s research can report or submit deceased birds to the DPH at local public health departments through Nov. 30.