Waukesha County bird tests positive for West Nile virus

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A bird in Waukesha County has tested positive for West Nile virus, according to the county's Parks and Land Use Department. 

A crow in the Town of Genesee tested positive for the virus. It is the first confirmed case in the county in 2018.

According to the department, WNV can spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who are infected do not become sick. However, some can experience fever, headache or rash.

The county says there are steps you can take to protect yourself against WNV:

  • Limit time spent outside at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
  • Apply an insect repellant with DEET, IR3535, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing
  • Make sure window and door screens are in good repair to prevent mosquito entry
  • Properly dispose of items around your property that hold water
  • Clean roof gutters and downspouts for proper drainage
  • Change the water in bird baths and pet dishes at least every three days
  • Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs; drain water from pool covers
  • Trim tall grass, weeds, and vines. Mosquitoes rest in these areas in hot daylight hours
  • Landscape to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas

 To report a sick or dead crow, blue jay, or raven, call the Dead Bird Reporting Hotline at 1-800-433-1610.

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