DHS offers safety advice after case of West Nile virus reported in Washington Co.

-
2:20
Sitcom star Billy Gardell joins CBS 58 to discuss Milwaukee Improv...
-
2:17
Dems rally in Waukesha against Musk’s influence on Wisconsin...
-
2:02
Milwaukee man charged in killing of transgender woman
-
0:42
Milwaukee Bucks hold moment of silence to honor Junior Bridgeman...
-
1:17
Girls’ Day returns to Milwaukee City Hall
-
1:57
Bills addressing reckless driving, school resource officers pass...
-
1:22
Influenza cases on the rise across Wisconsin, including some...
-
1:32
A tradition that gives back: Tremper High School hosts 43rd annual...
-
2:39
Popular Milwaukee LGBTQ+ bar This Is It! announces permanent...
-
2:24
Former employee charged for hiding camera in Cristo Rey Jesuit...
-
2:50
History of Milwaukee-style pizza
-
3:12
Visit Milwaukee preview: March 13-15
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Health officials from the Wisconsin DHS are cautioning people to be aware of the West Nile virus in mosquitos.
The first human case of the year in Wisconsin was identified in Washington County, where a person developed symptoms. DHS is also investigating a few other cases.
On average, 16 West Nile cases are reported in Wisconsin each year. Last year, 25 cases were reported.
DHS recommends wearing bug spray, long sleeves and pants, and staying inside at dawn and dusk, which are peak activity times for mosquitos.
"If you do get a fever, body aches, fatigue, headache. It can feel a lot like the flu or influenza. But it typically wouldn't involve respiratory symptoms," said Rebecca Osborn, Wisconsin DHS.
Osborn said it is sometimes difficult to know if you have West Nile only based off your symptoms, but a lab test can make that determination.
The peak season for West Nile runs through September.