Bird sanctuary warns of West Nile virus in birds of prey in Utrecht
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Vogelopvang Utrecht is sounding the alarm following the discovery of several birds of prey that are severely ill. The animals are exhibiting symptoms that point to an infection with the West Nile virus. These are birds that can no longer fly and were found in a weakened state.
The West Nile virus is normally spread by mosquitoes. Although the virus has not yet been detected on a large scale in the Netherlands, the recent cases in Utrecht have experts concerned. The sanctuary is currently investigating whether the virus is indeed the cause of the health problems in the birds of prey.
The bird sanctuary is calling on residents of the region to be alert. People who find a dead or clearly sick bird of prey are asked to report it immediately to the appropriate authorities. It is important not to touch the animals as a precaution for public health.
Although the virus mainly affects birds, in rare cases it can also be transmitted to humans and other mammals. The authorities are therefore closely monitoring the situation. For now, the advice is to leave dead birds where they are and report the finding to the local bird sanctuary or the NVWA.
Sources: AD.nl
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