Can west nile kill chickens?

[eggcited2]

Three of my younger chickens (hatched June 2) suddenly died this week. No signs of attack, no signs of trauma, no one looked sick, but they just were suddenly laying on the ground dead. (all three were standard cochins)

We have had west nile confirmed in our town and area. Could that have been what killed them? We are close to a lot of smaller lakes/ponds (from two acre size to ten acres) and we have a 2.5 acre lake that is about 200 feet from our chicken area.

 

[dawg53]

Some types of birds can die from it, but not chickens. The chickens immune system is quick to respond to the virus. Here's a link; it would be best to read the whole thread and take a look at links provided by other members if you wish:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/693363/west-nile-virus