HUDSON – The Columbia County Health Department has been notified by the State Department of Health that two crows from the county have tested positive for West Nile virus in the Claverack and Valatie area.

Because West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes, protecting yourself against mosquito bites is the best way to avoid the transmission of the disease, health officials said. “Any standing water around the yard can provide a home for mosquitoes to breed,” said Ed Coons, senior public health technician.

Mosquitoes can breed in any stagnant water that lasts more than four days. To reduce the mosquito population around your home and property, the local health department advises you to take steps to reduce or eliminate standing water.