Thus far, in 2008, there have been eight lab confirmations of West Nile virus and two of eastern equine encephalitis virus in the state, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control reported September 2, 2008.

"The public can help with West Nile virus surveillance by submitting dead crows or blue jays to a local DHEC County Environmental Health office," said Chris Evans, a Ph.D. entomologist with DHEC's Bureau of Laboratories. "Check DHEC's Web site for information about how to safely submit dead birds at: http://www.scdhec.gov/wes tnile, then click on Report Dead Birds for WNV Testing. People can protect themselves from mosquito bites by:

• Using a repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Follow the label directions when using any repellent;

• Keeping property clear of standing water in which mosquitoes can breed;

• Staying inside when mosquitoes are most active (dawn and dusk) or wearing long sleeves and pants;

• Keeping screens on windows and doors in good repair; and

• Being aware of the symptoms of West Nile virus.

South Carolina's current surveillance results on West Nile virus and links to additional information are available on DHEC's Web site at http://www.scdhec.gov/wes tnile/. Questions may also be referred to DHEC's local county public health departments during regular office hours. Contact information is available for your county in the phone book or online at:www.scdhec.gov/health/.