FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The East Chicago Health Department sent a dead crow to Indianapolis early this week that has been confirmed to have the West Nile Virus.

"We are sending out a precautionary warning to residents not to pick up dead animals but instead to notify our office," said Diana Garcia Burns, ECHD director.

The Health Department also advises the community to use mosquito repellant as a precautionary measure. There is no danger or need for residents to be alarmed at this time, however, precautionary measures like repellant and not handling dead animals is strongly encouraged. 

Any questions can be forwarded to the East Chicago Health Department at 219-391-8467.