First human case of West Nile virus confirmed in Waukesha County

WAUKESHA COUNTY – The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the Waukesha County Health and Social Services Department confirm the first human case of West Nile virus among a resident of Waukesha County.

Officials advise residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

The majority of human cases of WNV in the state occur during the months of August and September. However, the risk of contracting WNV and other mosquito-borne diseases is present whenever mosquitoes are active.

The chances that a person gets WNV are low. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. Those who become sick can develop fever, headaches and rashes that last a few days. Symptoms can begin between 3 and 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. In rare cases, WNV can cause serious illness with symptoms such as muscle weakness, stiff neck, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, and coma. Elderly people and people with compromised immune systems are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus other than to treat the symptoms. Affected individuals may be infected with West Nile Virus and must contact their health care provider.

WNV is transmitted to people by the bite of an infected mosquito and is not transmitted from one person to the other. Although few mosquitoes carry the virus, tips to minimize your exposure and eliminate mosquito breeding areas include:

• Limit time spent outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Apply an insect repellent containing DEET, IR3535, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil on exposed skin and clothing.
• Make sure window screens and doors are in good condition to prevent mosquito entry.
• Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by removing stagnant water from objects around your property, such as cans, plastic containers, flowerpots, discarded tires, gutters, and downspouts.
• Return wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats and canoes when you are not using them.
• Change the water in the bird baths and pet dishes at least every three days.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs; drain the water from the pool covers.
• Landscape to prevent water from accumulating in low areas and to mow tall grasses, weeds and vines, as mosquitoes use these areas to rest during the hot hours of the day.

For information on West Nile virus, CLICK HERE.

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