Caribou Dreamer2
04-13-2004, 11:28 AM
West Nile Virus (WNV) is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. It is widespread in Africa, southern Europe, and western Asia. WNV first appeared in the United States in 1999 in the greater New York City area. By 2002, WNV had spread to 44 states. It has caused illness and mortality in humans, wildlife and domestic animals, especially birds and horses. In humans, West Nile Virus causes an influenza-like illness that may lead to aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, and death, especially in persons over 50 years of age. Learning about symptoms of WNV is important because it affects not only people, but also wildlife and some domestic animals, especially horses. If you find a dead bird, please contact your local health department.
In August 2002, a number of great horned owls and red-tailed hawks were observed across Ohio on the ground, alive, but not responsive to danger. West Nile Virus was presumed to be the cause of these birds’ illness, and lead to the death of hundred of owls and hawks throughout Ohio. Test results issued by the National Wildlife Health Laboratory (NWHL) in Madison, Wisconsin indicated that these birds likely were affected by WNV. While there is no vaccination or treatment for birds with WNV, hundreds of birds were cared for by licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators across the state.
It is not known if raptors in Ohio will experience a similar impact by WNV this year. Persons who see a live raptor which appears thin, weak, unable to fly or stand, is easily approachable, and is not responsive to danger should contact a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator for assistance.
In August 2002, a number of great horned owls and red-tailed hawks were observed across Ohio on the ground, alive, but not responsive to danger. West Nile Virus was presumed to be the cause of these birds’ illness, and lead to the death of hundred of owls and hawks throughout Ohio. Test results issued by the National Wildlife Health Laboratory (NWHL) in Madison, Wisconsin indicated that these birds likely were affected by WNV. While there is no vaccination or treatment for birds with WNV, hundreds of birds were cared for by licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators across the state.
It is not known if raptors in Ohio will experience a similar impact by WNV this year. Persons who see a live raptor which appears thin, weak, unable to fly or stand, is easily approachable, and is not responsive to danger should contact a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator for assistance.