King County Public Health is asking county residents to report sightings of dead birds as part of its 2010 West Nile virus environmental surveillance program.

According to the agency, in 2009 more humans were infected by and more horses died from West Nile virus in Washington than previous years. Increases in dead birds in a specific place could be an early warning sign that the mosquito-borne virus has reached that area.

The county also urges residents to help prevent mosquito breeding by removing standing water on their property and to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

To report dead birds or for more information on West Nile virus or mosquito control, visit www.kingcounty.gov/health/westnile or call public health at 205-4394.