Oneida Co. bird tests positive for West Nile

According to the Oneida County Health Department, a dead crow has tested positive for West Nile Virus. The bird, found on July 29, is the first one to test positive for the virus since surveillance for the mosquito-transmitted virus started May 1.

The Oneida County Health Department is asking residents to be more vigilant and take protective measures against West Nile.

Here's what the agency says you can do to protect yourself:

• Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.

• Apply an insect repellent with DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.

• Make sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry.

• Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by removing stagnant water from items around your property, like tin cans, plastic containers, flower pots, discarded tires, roof gutters, and downspouts.

• Turn over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats, and canoes when not in use.

• Change the water in bird baths and pet dishes at least every three days.

• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers.

• Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas, and trim tall grass, weeds, and vines since mosquitoes use these areas to rest during hot daylight hours.