Two birds in B.C. test positive for West Nile Virus

KAMLOOPS — Two dead ravens from Kimberley have tested positive for the West Nile virus.

The provincial Animal Health Centre lab made the discovery as part of routine surveillance. It’s the first evidence of West Nile virus activity in B.C. this year.

“To date, there have been no human cases reported, no positive mosquito pools identified and no positives identified by Canadian Blood Services through their screening program,” says Interior Health, who note the risk of infection from handling birds is very low.

“However, you should not use your bare hands to handle wild birds (dead or alive). If you need to move a dead bird precautions should be taken. Unusual clusters of dead birds can be reported to the BC Interagency Wild Bird Mortality Investigation at 1-866-431-BIRD (2473).”