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Delaware Detects First Sign of West Nile Virus This Year

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Delaware officials say they have found first two wild birds of the year that have tested positive for West Nile Virus.

The Salisbury Daily Times reports that a crow found in southwestern Sussex County by the mosquito patrol of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control tested positive last week for the virus.

The results for the second crow came back positive four days later.

The paper reports that officials say the appearance of the virus usually comes later in the season but point to the recent rainfall in May and June for the detection.

The state has upped its aerial spraying and mosquito fog trucks to deal with the increased mosquito activity.

There are no vaccines for the West Nile virus but only 20 percent of people show mild symptoms that can include fever and body aches.

A smaller number that includes the elderly, pregnant women and children can develop serious symptoms.

Officials recommend wearing long sleeve shirts and use mosquito repellent.

They also say any open water should be drained since it is a breeding ground for mosquitos.

Don Rush is the News Director and Senior Producer of News and Public Affairs at Delmarva Public Media. An award-winning journalist, Don reports major local issues of the day, from sea level rise, to urban development, to the changing demographics of Delmarva.