WAUKESHA COUNTY BIRD TESTS POSITIVE FOR WEST NILE VIRUS
(WAUKESHA, WI) – The Waukesha County Environmental Health Division has been notified of the first confirmed case of the West Nile Virus (WNV) in birds found in the County this year. A crow in the Town of Genesee tested positive for the virus as part of the mosquito and WNV surveillance, prevention and control program that began May 1.
“Residents should be aware of West Nile Virus and take some simple steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites,” said Sarah Ward, Environmental Health Manager. “The best way to avoid the disease is to reduce exposure to and eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes.”
Simple steps to protect against West Nile Virus:
The Waukesha County Environmental Health Division, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Division of Public Health, will continue WNV surveillance until the end of the mosquito season. Now that a positive result has been identified in the County, testing will be discontinued. To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay, or raven, call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.
About West Nile Virus
WNV can spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people (80%) who are infected with WNV do not get sick. Those who become ill usually experience mild symptoms such as fever, headache, or rash. Less than 1% of people get seriously ill.
For more information on West Nile virus: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/arboviral/westnilevirus.htm
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