West Nile Virus Surveillance

Dead Bird Collection/Preparation Information

Dead birds will only be accepted for testing from May 1 through October 15.

Submitted birds should be believed dead less than 48 hours. Please call your local health department to report the dead bird and request permission to submit for testing.

Use rubber gloves when picking up dead or sick birds. If you do not have gloves, insert your hand into a plastic bag use it like a glove.

Place the bird in a clear plastic bag, tie shut, then place inside a second bag and tie shut.

Unless immediately transported to the Health Dept, birds should be put on chill packs or refrigerated ASAP.

Be sure the bird is acceptable for testing:

Only these birds can be tested for West Nile Virus.

Have West Nile Virus questions? email us here