What does it mean if a tree squirrel in my neighborhood tests positive for West Nile virus?
There is no evidence that people can become infected with West Nile virus by being near an infected squirrel or in the yard with a dead one. However, the presence of an infected squirrel does mean that there could be infected mosquitoes nearby, and people should use protective clothing and repellent, and remove standing water on their property where mosquitoes might breed.
