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MILWAUKEE – The Health Department of the City of Milwaukee (MHD) has identified the first probable human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) this year. The health department advises residents to continue to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
"Although summer is coming to an end, it is important for residents to remain vigilant about preventing mosquito bites," said Health Commissioner Jeanette Kowalik.
According to the Milwaukee Health Department, most human cases of West Nile virus in Wisconsin occur in August and September. Symptoms include fever, rash, headache, and joint pain. The chances of a person getting West Nile virus are low and most people who are infected will have no symptoms.
Symptoms can appear between three and fifteen days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. In rare cases, West Nile virus can cause severe 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.
West Nile virus is transmitted to people by the bite of an infected mosquito and is not transmitted from one person to another.
The Milwaukee Health Department reminds individuals to take steps to prevent mosquito bites, including:
- Limit time spent at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
- Apply an insect repellent containing DEET, IR 3535, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil on clothing and exposed skin.
- Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by removing stagnant water from areas such as flowerpots, plastic containers, gutters and downspouts. The water in the bird baths and pet dishes should be changed at least every three days. Swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs must be cleaned and chlorinated.
- The killing of tall grass, weeds and vines when mosquitoes use these areas to rest during the hot hours of the day and the landscaping to prevent water from getting into the water. accumulates in low areas.
- Protect your home from mosquitoes by fixing holes in mosquito nets, windows and doors.
There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus other than the treatment of symptoms. If you think you have a West Nile virus infection, contact your health care provider.
For more information on West Nile Virus, visit www.milwaukee.gov/westnilevirus.
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