A dead crow found in Douglas County has tested positive for West Nile virus, the Douglas County Department of Health and Human Services reports. It is the first case of West Nile virus found in the county this year.
West Nile virus is transmitted to human through the bite of an
infected mosquito, so health officials are reminding people to be vigilant in preventing mosquito bites. The department specifically recommends:
* Maintaining window screens in good repair.
* Staying indoors during times of high mosquito activity, specifically around dawn and dusk.
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* Wearing light-colored protective clothing such as long pants and loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts.
* Using effective mosquito repellent.
* Removing containers, old tires and other objects that can hold water where mosquitoes can breed.
About 80 percent of people who are infected with West Nile virus do not get ill. Those who do become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache or rash. Less than 1 percent of people infected get seriously ill.
No human cases of West Nile have been confirmed yet this year in Wisconsin.
