West Nile virus confirmed in Northeastern Wisconsin resident

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has announced this year's first confirmed case of West Nile virus in a resident of Northeastern Wisconsin.

The department says the majority of human WNV cases occur during August and September. They say it's important for residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites throughout the rest of the summer and into early fall.

DHS says the chances of a person contracting the virus are very low, and most who do will not get sick. If symptoms do present, they typically begin between three to 15 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. They say older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at a greater risk of developing a severe disease from the virus.

The department recommends the following:

  • Limiting time spend outside at dawn and dusk
  • Applying an insect repellent to skin and clothing
  • Preventing mosquitoes from entering homes by making sure windows and door screens are intact
  • Removing stagnant water from items around your property to prevent mosquitoes from breeding
  • Turning over wheelbarrows, wading pools, boats and canoes when not in use
  • Changing the water in bird baths and pet dishes at least every three days
  • Cleaning and chlorinating swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs; draining water from pool covers
  • Landscaping to prevent water from pooling in low-lying areas, and trimming tall grass, weeds and vines
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