For Immediate Release

August 4, 2008

Contact:            Vicki L. Duey, Four Corners Health Department

                            402-362-2621, toll free 877-337-3573

Four Corners District Has Its First Human Case of West Nile Virus

The Four Corners Health District (Butler, Polk, Seward and York Counties) has now had its first human case of West Nile Virus, in York County. 

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird.  In turn, the mosquito can pass the virus to humans. 

“We want everyone to remember that we need to take precautions to protect ourselves from mosquito bites,” says Lynda Zieg, Program Specialist, of the Four Corners Health Department.  To fight the bite:

Four Corners will continue to monitor mosquito pools and take reports of all species of dead birds.  Certain species (blue jays, crows, magpies and raptors) will be collected and submitted and tested for West Nile virus.  Dead birds to be collected for testing must be in good condition, with no evidence of maggots, decomposition or odor.

If you have questions about West Nile virus, or to report a dead bird, call the Four Corners Health Department at 362-2621 or toll free (877) 337-3573.