Three more dead crows have tested positive for the West Nile virus, state health officials announced Monday. That brings the total this year to five infected birds. All three were found in Middlesex County between May 5 and Thursday. So far, the state has tested 36 crows and one hawk for the disease, which is transmitted through mosquito bites and is often fatal to birds.
Humans are susceptible to the disease from mosquito bites.
While West Nile virus usually causes symptoms no worse than mild flu, it can cause more severe illness, particularly in older people.