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West Nile Virus

		• Department of Health • DOH West Nile Virus Info • Department of Agriculture • WSDOT Protocol for West Nile Virus Bird Surveillance (.pdf, 42kb)

As a responsible land owner and to protect public health and safety, WSDOT remains committed to help reduce the threat of West Nile Virus. WSDOT has established a three part West Nile virus action plan that emphasizes education, surveillance and control. This strategy helps protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from this disease risk.

In 2006, nationwide there were 4,268 positive cases of the West Nile virus, with 177 deaths. Three people became infected with West Nile virus while living in Washington State that same year. Idaho was hit hard by West Nile last year, as it was second in the nation behind Texas. Idaho went from 23 WNV cases in 2005 to 911 human cases, with 19 deaths in 2006.

WSDOT makes the most of limited resources for this program by focusing on training and increased awareness for field staff. When possible WSDOT designs it roadsides in a manner to reduce mosquito breeding areas and encourage natural predators of mosquito larvae. Although large ponds and wetlands are common places for many mosquito species to breed, these are not popular places for the kind of mosquitoes most likely to spread the virus to humans.

WSDOT employees are trained to test, or dip, possible roadside breeding areas such as ponds and ditches to establish the presence of mosquito larvae. WSDOT has implemented Department of Ecology’s “Best Management Practices For Mosquito Control” as our integrated pest management plan. WSDOT uses natural bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) and bacilllus sphaericus to control mosquito larvae when found. The products we use are applied in the form of pellets or briquettes. These natural larvicides do not harm fish or animals.

Staff has been trained to notice and collect certain species of dead birds for potential West Nile virus testing by DOH. Birds that test positive for West Nile virus are a good indicator that the virus is active in an area.

The state Department of Health (DOH) works with local health partners to reduce potential exposure to West Nile virus. Monitoring — including mosquito surveillance and dead bird testing — resumed this spring. Health agencies advise other state and local agencies on West Nile virus planning, surveillance, control and prevention.

Other questions about West Nile Virus? The Department of Health West Nile virus information line 1-866-78-VIRUS (1-866-788-4787) and the agency’s West Nile virus Web site (www.doh.wa.gov/WNV) are excellent resources for anyone who wants to learn more.

For more information regarding WSDOT’s preparation for West Nile Virus, contact Norm Payton at (360) 705-7848 or email paytonn@wsdot.wa.gov

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