The agency expects to test mosquitoes from all 46 counties over the next few months. Twenty-three dead wild birds also have tested negative this year. In addition to testing and surveillance, DHEC assists local mosquito control programs in public education and prevention actions. The virus is commonly found in Africa, West Asia and the Middle East and was identified in the United States in 1999 in New York. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds.
Mosquitoes then transfer the virus to humans or animals during feeding.
Symptoms of West Nile encephalitis in humans include headache, profound weakness, stupor or sleepiness and coma. Dead birds, particularly crows, could be a sign of West Nile virus and should be reported to the county health department.