Residents are urged
to collect dead birds

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Virus testing Where to get details on bird collection and drop-off locations: >> Department of Health Web site: www.hawaii.gov/health >> Call 211

State and city officials announced yesterday eight locations on Oahu where residents can bring dead birds to be tested for the West Nile Virus.

While there are currently no reported cases of the virus in Hawaii, the disease often appears first in local bird populations, so dead birds in an area may indicate the presence of the disease, according to officials.

West Nile Virus is a sometimes-fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito.

While it usually circulates between mosquitoes and birds, it can be transmitted to people. The virus is not transmitted from person to person or from birds to people.

In California, officials said yesterday that an 86-year-old Riverside County woman had died from the virus, making her that state's 12th fatality from the illness.

Residents are asked to collect and take dead birds to:

>> DOH Vector Control Branch at 99-945 Halawa Valley St. in Aiea.

>> The Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Avenue.

>> Kapiolani Park, 2447 Leahi Ave.

>> Kualoa Regional Park, 49-479 Kamehameha Highway.

>> Waialua District Park, 67-180 Goodale Ave.

>> Waianae District Park, 85-601 Farrington Highway.

>> Waimanalo District Park, 41-415 Hihimanu.

>> Waipahu District Park, 94-230 Paiwa St.

At the parks, birds should be taken to the main office. Drop-off hours may vary by location. Check the Department of Health Web site at www.hawaii.gov/health or call 211 for details on bird collection and drop-off locations.

Should a bird or mosquito test positive for West Nile Virus, the Department of Health and county and federal partners will conduct insecticide spraying and treatment of standing water for mosquito larvae. Residents will be given adequate notice prior to spraying activities, officials said.