Tulsa City County Health Department confirms more West Nile virus bird cases

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- Tulsa Health Department officials are confirming Tuesday that 130 birds in the county have tested positive for West Nile virus.<br/><br/>That represents a marked increase from figures

Tuesday, August 17th 2004, 4:56 pm

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- Tulsa Health Department officials are confirming Tuesday that 130 birds in the county have tested positive for West Nile virus.

That represents a marked increase from figures released last month.

The Oklahoma Department of Health says 146 birds and four horses statewide have tested positive for the virus.

Officials say no Oklahomans have tested positive for the virus so far this year.

The infected birds are being found all over Tulsa County, and authorities are urging residents to take proper precautions.

Safety tips include avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, when mosquito activity is heaviest, and wearing long sleeves and pants when outside. Using insect repellant that contains DEET and draining all items that contain standing water can also help stem mosquito activity.