Crow Tested Positive for West Nile Virus
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A dead crow found at a Richard Avenue property on August 22, 2005 has tested positive for West Nile Virus. This was the first bird to be tested from Sudbury in 2005. Two birds tested positive in 2003. Testing is conducted by the State Laboratory Institute for birds submitted by local boards of health until two are found positive each year. Residents that find dead birds should report them to the MDPH Public Information Line at (866) MASS-WNV / (866) 627-7968. If the bird needs to be tested, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health will contact the Sudbury Board of Health to pick up the bird.
The East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project had treated catch basins in Sudbury in mid June. Catch basins in the vicinity of Richard Avenue are receiving an additional treatment with Bacillus sphaericus during the week of August 29 to control mosquitoes that may transmit West Nile Virus from birds to humans.
The Sudbury Board of Health urges residents to avoid mosquito bites and follow recommendations by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for using insect repellents (www.mass.gov/dph/). Residents can reduce mosquito populations on their property by eliminating standing water in containers such as pails, trash cans, tires, wheelbarrows or stagnate bird baths.