DHD#10 confirms West Nile Virus in bird from Kalkaska Co.

District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) said they were notified of a West Nile Virus infection in a Kalkaska County bird.

The bird was treated but had to be euthanized after its symptoms didn’t improve.

RELATED: West Nile Virus found in Upper Peninsula bird populations

DHD#10 said no human cases of West Nile Virus have been detected in their district.

“While there is no evidence of the transmission of WNV infection directly from birds to humans, it is important to make sure you’re avoiding bare-handed contact when handling any dead animal,” said DHD#10 Medical Director, Dr. Jennifer Morse. “If you need to pick up a dead bird, make sure to use gloves or an inverted plastic bag.”

West Nile Virus is usually transmitted to birds, humans, horses or other mammals through infected mosquito bites. Predator or scavenger birds like hawks, owls and crows can become infected by eating sick or dead birds with the illness.

You can find more information about West Nile Virus in birds from the CDC here.