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Livingston County Has First West Nile Virus Case This Year

Livingston County health officials say that a dead crow found in that county has tested positive for West Nile virus. It's the first case of West Nile in that county this year.

West Nile Virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds.

At this point, officials say no public health response is needed.  Officials do recommend people make sure to take precautionary steps such as using insect repellant, disposing of outdoor items like discarded tires that can hold water and make sure window and door screens are in good shape.

The majority of people who are infected with West Nile do not get sick. Those who do become ill usually have mild symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle ache, rash and fatigue.

A spokesman for the Monroe County Health Department says that they, and a number of other counties no longer test birds for the virus, but they do not have any reports of West Nile.

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.