Time to be on guard for West Nile virus

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If you find a dead crow on your doorstep, don’t assume it’s a victim of the cat next door and rush it to the trash can.

State health officials urge that you first report it to experts keeping tabs on birds downed by the West Nile virus.

Some dead birds have tested positive for the virus already this season -- 25 in Orange County, 18 in San Diego County and six in Los Angeles County.

Crows, ravens, magpies and jays are among the most susceptible to the virus. In humans, the virus can cause flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, can lead to encephalitis, meningitis and death.

No human cases have been reported in California so far this year.

To report a dead bird, call 877-968-2473, or go to www.westnile.ca.gov.

-- Francisco Vara-Orta