West Nile Virus Surveillance

This mosquito borne disease often kills birds, especially crows and blue jays. During the summer months, local residents are encouraged to call us if they find dead crows or blue jays on their property. An environmental staff member will come to the residence to collect the bird(s). The birds are sent to the Ohio Department of Health Laboratory for testing. Please note that the laboratory only tests crows or blue jays! In this way, we can monitor the amount of virus activity in our county, and issue proper alerts to residents to protect themselves. Ways to reduce the chance of exposure to mosquitoes include reducing water-holding areas around your home that provide breeding habitats for mosquitos, using insect repellant containing DEET on exposed skin (especially during early morning hours and early evening hours), or covering exposed skin with clothing. To download a copy of an informational brochure on West Nile Virus and other mosquito borne diseases click here: Mosquito Brochure