Well no need to panic at this time.
Last summer confirmed reports of West Nile is only one hour drive from Manhattan so it's better save than sorry.
Anyway, NYC Dept of Health and Mental Hygiene said,
"However, your report of a dead bird is
extremely important to us because
dead bird reports may indicate the presence of West Nile virus. If you do not receive a call back from the Department of Health within two business days of making your report, please dispose of the bird.
There is currently
no evidence that West Nile virus can be
spread directly from birds to people. However, dead birds can carry a variety of diseases and, therefore, should never be handled with bare hands.
To dispose of a dead bird, use plastic or latex gloves to carefully place it in a double plastic bag. Or you may use a doubled plastic bag as a glove to pick up the bird. Then wrap the bird in the bag, tie it off and place it in the outdoor trash. Wash your hands with soap and water when finished."
"This information will be kept
strictly confidential."
link to report found dead birds:
http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/doh/html/wnv/wnvbird.shtml
still effective as of today Aug 05,06